Black Day Protests in Pakistan: Section 144 Imposed in Punjab Amid Imran Khan’s Party Demonstrations
Black Day Protests in Pakistan: Section 144 Imposed in Punjab Amid Imran Khan’s Party Demonstrations PTI Leaders Arrested as Black Day Protests Erupt Across Pakistan; PML-N Defies Section 144 in Lahore
PTI, Islamabad – In a dramatic turn of events, several prominent leaders of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the party of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan, were arrested on Saturday during nationwide protests marking Black Day. The PTI had called for the observance of Black Day on February 8 to denounce alleged rigging in last year’s general elections, sparking widespread demonstrations and a crackdown by authorities.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Rally: PTI’s Stronghold Faces Crackdown
The main rally was held in Swabi, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where PTI remains in power. Despite the party’s call for peaceful protests, police moved swiftly to arrest leaders and workers who participated in the rally. The PTI had initially planned a massive gathering at Lahore’s historic Minar-e-Pakistan, but the Punjab government denied permission, forcing a last-minute change in strategy.
Also Read: Deadly Clash in Balochistan: Pakistani Army Kills 23 Terrorists, Loses 18 Soldiers
The rally in Swabi saw a significant turnout, with PTI supporters chanting slogans against the government and demanding justice for what they called “stolen elections.” However, the event was cut short as law enforcement agencies intervened, detaining several key leaders and dispersing the crowd.
Punjab on High Alert: Section 144 Enforced
The Maryam Nawaz-led Punjab government-imposed Section 144 across the province, banning all political gatherings, rallies, sit-ins, and protests on February 8. Heavy police contingents were deployed to prevent PTI supporters from assembling at designated venues. Despite the restrictions, PTI workers attempted to mobilize, leading to the arrest of dozens of leaders and activists.
Among those detained were high-profile figures, including Mehar Bano Qureshi, daughter of PTI Vice President Shah Mehmood Qureshi, and other senior leaders like Jahind Bahar Hashmi and Daleer Mehar. The arrests were made for violating Section 144 during protests at Pul Chatta and other locations.
The imposition of Section 144 and the subsequent arrests have drawn sharp criticism from PTI leaders, who accuse the government of suppressing dissent and violating democratic rights. “This is not just an attack on PTI but on the very fabric of democracy,” said a senior PTI leader.
PML-N Defies Its Own Restrictions in Lahore
In a surprising move, the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) held a rally in Lahore to celebrate the first anniversary of its government, blatantly defying the very restrictions it had imposed under Section 144. The rally, protected by heavy police presence, was addressed by Federal Information Minister Ataullah Tarar, who lauded the government’s achievements over the past year.
The PML-N’s decision to hold the rally despite the ban has sparked outrage among opposition supporters, who accuse the government of double standards. “While PTI workers are being arrested for peaceful protests, the ruling party is allowed to flout its own laws,” said a PTI spokesperson.
Nationwide Protests and Political Tensions Escalate
The contrasting treatment of PTI and PML-N rallies has further fueled political tensions in the country. PTI supporters took to social media to express their anger, sharing videos and images of the crackdown on their protests while highlighting the PML-N’s rally in Lahore.
The arrests and protests underscore the deepening political divide in Pakistan. The PTI has vowed to continue its resistance, with party leaders calling for nationwide demonstrations in the coming weeks. “We will not be silenced. The people of Pakistan know the truth, and they will fight for their rights,” said a PTI leader.
A Volatile Political Landscape (Black Day Protests in Pakistan)
As Pakistan navigates this volatile political landscape, the events of February 8 have highlighted the growing polarization between the ruling coalition and the opposition. The PTI’s call for Black Day protests and the subsequent crackdown reflect the ongoing struggle for political legitimacy in the country.
The government, on the other hand, has defended its actions, citing the need to maintain law and order. “We cannot allow any group to disrupt public peace,” said a government spokesperson.
What’s Next?
With tensions showing no signs of easing, the coming weeks are likely to see more political confrontations. The PTI has already announced plans for further protests, while the government has signaled its intent to maintain strict control over public gatherings.
As the situation unfolds, the people of Pakistan are left to wonder whether their leaders can bridge the growing divide or if the country is headed for even greater political instability.
Also Read: Bangladesh in Turmoil: Protesters Explodes Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s House
