Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi Warns PTI Against Entering Islamabad, Offers Sangjani for Protest Site
Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has issued a stern warning to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) regarding their planned protests, stating that they will not be allowed to enter Islamabad and suggesting Sangjani as an alternative protest site.
In a late-night press conference in Islamabad, Naqvi emphasized that the government is prepared to take extreme measures, including imposing a curfew, invoking Article 245 to seek army assistance, or other unspecified actions, to maintain law and order. “We’re saying in advance that we will take extreme steps if necessary,” he warned.
Sangjani Protest Offer
Naqvi highlighted that the government had given PTI the option to hold their protest in Sangjani to avoid clashes. “It’s been 24 hours since the offer, and my information is that they’ve sought permission from Imran Khan in Adiala Jail regarding this,” he said. Despite discussions, the government has not received a final response from PTI.
The minister reiterated that no one has been allowed to protest at D-Chowk in the past, stressing that the current situation is critical due to the presence of Belarus’s president in Islamabad. “Do not cross the red line, or we will take extreme steps. Even if it means imposing a curfew or invoking Article 245, we will act to ensure the city is not overtaken,” Naqvi asserted.
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Government’s Stance on Violence
Addressing recent clashes, Naqvi noted incidents of violence involving PTI protesters, including the shooting of a Rangers soldier at Chungi No 26 and multiple other confrontations. “Shots are being fired, and the response to this is also fire. Do not compel us to take extreme steps,” he warned.
He added that law enforcement was working to ensure public safety and prevent loss of life, but any provocation from protesters would be met with a strong response. “Our aim is to protect lives, while their aim seems entirely different,” Naqvi stated.
PTI’s Internal Matters
Naqvi commented on alleged internal PTI discussions, including a meeting between PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan and Imran Khan at Adiala Jail. He suggested that PTI leadership might face internal disagreements over the protest strategy.
The minister clarified that he had not engaged in any meetings at the Ministers Enclave, as speculated earlier. “There are no ongoing negotiations,” he said, reaffirming the government’s focus on maintaining public order.
Next Steps
Naqvi stressed that the government would update the high court on developments and its engagement with PTI. “We have to inform the court tomorrow about our contacts,” he said, urging PTI to make a decision on whether to relocate their protest to Sangjani.
As tensions rise, the government remains firm in its stance to prevent Islamabad from becoming a site of chaos, emphasizing the priority of public safety and law enforcement.
