Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) marked Independence Day with rallies across Lahore, but the events were marred by clashes with police, arrests, and releases of party workers. PTI Punjab General Secretary Hammad Azhar, who has been in hiding since last year’s violent protests, made a brief appearance, leading a motorcycle rally despite being wanted by police in connection with over 50 FIRs.
The rallies, led by PTI Punjab parliamentarians, including Opposition Leader Malik Ahmad Khan Bhachar, marched through the city, chanting slogans like “Pakistan Zindabad” and demanding the release of PTI founder Imran Khan and other detained leaders. However, police efforts to block the rally led to clashes, with over a dozen workers arrested and two workers’ clothes torn.
Bhachar criticized the heavy police presence and aggressive treatment of parliamentarians, stating, “We are celebrating Independence Day, yet we are treated like terrorists.” He warned Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, saying PTI leaders and workers remain steadfast in their support for Imran Khan.
Hammad Azhar’s motorcycle rally was dispersed by police at Kalma Chowk, with around 50 PTI workers arrested. Azhar narrowly escaped capture, protected by supporters, and criticized the government’s tactics, reiterating the party’s commitment to securing “real independence” under Imran Khan’s leadership.
The events highlight the ongoing tensions between PTI and the government, with PTI leaders and workers determined to hold rallies despite police efforts to block them. The party has announced plans for a mass public gathering soon, with Shaukat Basra saying, “This TikTok government will collapse when people come out on roads.”
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