Power Show: PTI's Rally Demands Imran Khan's Release

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) held a significant rally demanding the release of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Despite previous delays and government crackdowns, thousands attended the event near Islamabad. The gathering faced police action for violating the permitted time limit, leading to clashes and injuries among security personnel.

Jailed former premier Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) held a massive rally on Sunday, demanding his immediate release, as they condemned the government for its stringent crackdown on the party. The police resorted to tear gas to disperse the crowd.

The rally, initially postponed twice in the past two months, finally took place near Sangjani Cattle Market in Islamabad's suburbs following a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) granted by the capital administration. Thousands of PTI supporters attended, reiterating the party's strong support base despite numerous obstacles, including the incarceration of Khan.

Khan, arrested on August 5 last year after being convicted in the Toshakhana corruption case, has now spent 400 days in prison. The rally, scheduled to conclude at 7 pm local time as per the NOC, saw authorities take action once the deadline passed, directing police to take action against non-compliant rally-goers. Clashes ensued, resulting in injuries among law enforcement personnel.

PTI workers responded to the police crackdown by pelting stones, injuring several officers, including Senior Superintendent of Police Shoaib Khan. Despite these challenges, the turnout was robust, indicating the party's resilient mobilization capability against state efforts to limit their numbers and activities. According to Micheal Kugleman, a South Asian expert, PTI's mobilization remains unaffected by the state's repeated attempts to undermine it.

During the rally, several PTI leaders addressed the crowd, fervently calling for Khan's immediate release.

(With inputs from agencies.)