Islamabad on Lockdown as Jamaat-e-Islami and PTI Prepare for Major Protests

Islamabad has been locked down ahead of major protests planned by Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). The Red Zone, including key intersections like D-Chowk, Nadra Chowk, and Sarina Chowk, has been sealed with containers to prevent any gatherings.

The protests are set to address the recent surge in electricity bills and rising inflation. Jamaat-e-Islami is organizing a sit-in at D-Chowk, while PTI has announced nationwide demonstrations. In response to these planned protests, both the federal and Punjab governments have imposed Section 144 in Islamabad and Punjab, effective from July 26 to July 28. This measure bans rallies, sit-ins, and public gatherings due to security concerns related to potential terrorism threats.

In anticipation of the sit-in, police have conducted raids on the homes of JI leaders across various cities, arresting several individuals and targeting activists. JI Secretary General Ameerul Azeem has condemned these actions, stating that they are attempts to disrupt the protest. Azeem reported incidents of police raids, arrests, and mistreatment of women.

Jamaat-e-Islami’s Emir, Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, has warned the government that any obstruction to their protest will be met with serious consequences. He emphasized that the sit-in is a peaceful demonstration of public dissent and urged the government to allow the protest to proceed.