Security forces in Islamabad launched a midnight operation to clear the D-Chowk and surrounding business districts, forcing supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan to end their protest.

The crackdown, which led to the arrest of around 450 protesters, has been condemned by Khan's party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), as a “massacre” under what they describe as a “fascist military regime.” The party alleges that security forces used live ammunition with the intent to kill.

The protest, which had been ongoing since Sunday, saw PTI supporters engage in violent clashes with law enforcement, resulting in the deaths of six security personnel and injuries to dozens of others. The protesters had gathered at D-Chowk, a site near key government buildings, as part of a march to Islamabad led by Bushra Bibi, Imran Khan's wife, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur. They vowed to continue their sit-in until Khan’s release from jail.

Despite ongoing efforts by security personnel to disperse the crowds, PTI supporters clashed with police, using tear gas and shipping containers as barriers. The protesters, many of whom had traveled from across the country, faced escalating violence from security forces.

Around midnight, police and Rangers launched an operation to clear the Blue Area business district, forcing the protesters, including Bibi and Gandapur, to retreat. While police officials confirmed the arrest of 450 individuals, PTI spokespersons suggested more arrests were expected as the protest officially ended.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi confirmed that Bibi and Gandapur had fled the scene, adding that their departure was indicative of the protest’s conclusion. He also announced that roads would be reopened, mobile and internet services restored, and schools would reopen the next day.

Meanwhile, PTI reacted strongly to the crackdown. The party accused the government of using excessive force, stating that the security forces’ actions amounted to an attempt to kill as many people as possible. PTI’s statement referred to the events as a "massacre" and blamed the ruling coalition, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, President Asif Ali Zardari, and Chief of Army Staff Gen Asim Munir, for the bloodshed.

The protest was called by Khan on November 13, who denounced the alleged “stolen mandate” and the arrest of party members. Khan’s call for protests had aimed to challenge what he described as the “dictatorial regime” and to demand his release after being jailed since August 2023.

The crackdown has drawn widespread condemnation, with PTI calling on the international community to take a stand against the violence. The party further stated that the actions of the government showed a disregard for human rights and democracy, urging global condemnation of the attack on peaceful protesters. (ILKHA)