The escalating political scenario in Pakistan led to a clash between PTI workers and the police in Karachi’s Teen Talwar. This incident followed nationwide rallies initiated by PTI in response to Imran Khan’s call. Cities like Lahore, Peshawar, Faisalabad, Quetta, and Rawalpindi witnessed these election activities. Officials reported that PTI’s rally in Karachi lacked permission from the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).
During the confrontation, the police used baton charges, tear gas, and aerial firing to disperse the crowd. The clash resulted in several injuries and arrests, including seven police officers. Deputy Inspector General (DIG) South, Asad Raza, confirmed the arrest of 25 individuals, stating that FIRs would be filed against them.
Reactions and Consequences
The PTI rally’s route alteration stirred further controversy. Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), PTI’s rival, condemned PTI, with Maryam Nawaz Sharif urging strict action against the protestors. PTI criticized the government’s harsh response, especially towards women and children in the rally. In Peshawar, 17 PTI workers were arrested for disrupting government functions.
In a related development, Mian Azhar, ex-Punjab governor and father of PTI’s Hammad Azhar, was detained in Lahore. This arrest followed the caretaker provincial government’s imposition of Section 144 of the CrPC, banning arms display and aerial firing until February 12. This measure aims to enforce the ECP’s code of conduct.