Pakistan Mobile Internet Shut Amid Imran Khan Supporters' Protests
Major Disruptions in Islamabad
Pakistan mobile internet shut down following clashes between Imran Khan supporters and police in Islamabad. Security forces swarmed the capital in response to protests aimed at demonstrating against the government's crackdown. Khan, facing numerous legal challenges, is currently unable to participate in upcoming elections, sparking outrage among his followers.
Protests Ignite Nationwide
Supporters of Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party rallied from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa towards Islamabad but faced significant obstacles including roadblocks and tear gas. On Saturday, the atmosphere heightened with small convoys attempting to break through barriers, coinciding with a troop deployment in anticipation of an upcoming SCO summit. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi confirmed over 550 arrests were made during the protests.
Impact on Communication and Rights
- Amnesty International condemned internet cuts as a violation of basic freedoms.
- Protests are scheduled in Lahore, with major highways blocked.
- Past social media restrictions have raised concerns about transparency and expression in the country.
In response to the overwhelming circumstances, Khan praised his supporters’ resolve via social media, emphasizing their resilience amidst state-imposed obstacles.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.