Crackdown on PTI: Arrests Stir Political Tensions in Pakistan

Pakistani authorities arrested several leaders of former Prime Minister Imran Khan's party, PTI, including its chairman, sparking significant political unrest. National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq promised action against those involved in the arrests. The arrests follow a violent clash with police, further escalating tensions in the already volatile political landscape.

In a significant escalation of political unrest in Pakistan, several leaders of former Prime Minister Imran Khan's party, Pakistan-Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), were detained, including its chairman and multiple lawmakers. The arrests come in the wake of a clash between PTI workers and police during a Sunday rally.

National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq has vowed to take serious action against those responsible for the arrests. The government accused PTI of extending the rally beyond the allotted time, thereby violating their permission.

PTI spokesman Zulfi Bokhari reported that thirteen PTI leaders were arrested in raids, including prominent members such as Gohar Khan, Sher Afzal Marwat, and Shoaib Shaheen. The PTI condemned the arrests as an attack on democracy, with opposition leaders and government allies warning that the situation could exacerbate existing political tensions.

(With inputs from agencies.)