The Biden administration has urged Pakistani authorities to respect human rights and called for calm amid escalating political protests across the country. US State Department Spokesman Matthew Miller emphasized the importance of peaceful demonstrations, urging protesters to act peacefully and refrain from violence. He also called on Pakistani authorities to uphold human rights and fundamental freedoms during the unrest.
The protests, led by supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), have intensified in recent days. The demonstrations are focused on demands for Khan’s release from jail and claims of electoral irregularities in the February election. Khan’s supporters have gathered in Islamabad to reclaim what they describe as a “looted mandate.”
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The protests have led to violent clashes with security forces, resulting in fatalities. At least one police officer was killed, and over 20 others were injured in the ongoing confrontations. In response to the increasing unrest, Pakistan has deployed additional security forces, including Rangers, and announced the deployment of the Pakistan Army in Islamabad under Article 245 of the Constitution. This move grants the army the authority to impose curfews and take decisive actions to restore law and order.
The violence reached a tragic peak when a vehicle was rammed into Rangers personnel on Srinagar Highway, leading to the martyrdom of four Rangers officers and two policemen. Additionally, several other security forces were injured in separate attacks, including a Ranger who was critically wounded by gunfire during clashes in Rawalpindi.
Authorities have issued stern directives to security personnel, authorizing them to use extreme measures, including shooting rioters on sight, to prevent further violence and maintain order. The situation continues to be tense, with heightened security measures in Islamabad’s sensitive areas.
