Tensions Rise: Police Clash with Pashtun Advocates Amid Controversial Ban

Clashes erupted between police and supporters of the banned Pashtun Protection Movement in northwest Pakistan, as authorities barred the group from holding rallies. The government accuses the movement of backing the Pakistani Taliban, a claim PTM denies. The ban led to violent confrontations, with injuries reported and calls for its revocation.

Police and supporters of a prohibited organization advocating for Pashtun rights clashed violently in northwest Pakistan. The authorities deployed tear gas and batons to quell the protesters.

The unrest followed a ban on the Pashtun Protection Movement, accused of supporting the Pakistani Taliban. Several demonstrators were hospitalized, with some in critical condition.

PTM denies backing the Taliban, asserting peace efforts for Pashtun rights. Despite the ban, the group's leaders plan to proceed with a scheduled rally, while international bodies call for revocation of the ban.

(With inputs from agencies.)