PTI stages massive jalsa despite roadblocks, calls for Imran Khan’s release

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) jalsa held at the Cattle Market near Islamabad saw a significant gathering of PTI workers and supporters, despite numerous obstacles created by the local administration.

The rally, marking PTI’s resurgence following the arrest of its founder Imran Khan, was highlighted by fiery speeches from prominent leaders, including Hammad Azhar, Jamshed Dasti and Hamid Raza.

Hammad Azhar, addressing the crowd after appearing from his hiding, talked about the party’s resolve to fight for the supremacy of the constitution and the rule of law. He assured supporters that no obstacles, whether physical or political, would deter their movement and reiterated the party’s commitment to securing Imran Khan’s release.

PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar also criticized the administration for erecting barriers and closing key routes, despite granting a no-objection certificate (NOC) for the event. He questioned the value of issuing an NOC while simultaneously blocking roads, noting that PTI workers were finding ways around the obstacles, underscoring the rally’s significance.

Other leaders like Hamid Raza, the Chairman of Sunni Ittehad Council, invoked the imagery of water flowing and finding its own way, likening the resolve of PTI supporters to a force that cannot be stopped. He declared that the day would be historic for Pakistan, highlighting the people’s commitment to their cause.

Also read: PTI leader’s son arrested, major routes blocked ahead of rally

The rally was part of PTI’s broader movement against what they call a “fascist” government, as articulated by Jamshed Dasti. He praised the public for standing up against government and expressed confidence that Imran Khan would soon be freed from prison.

PTI leader Shandana Gulzar framed the gathering not just as a rally but as a celebration and a “day of jihad” for PTI’s cause.

Interestingly, no private television channels broadcast the event live, raising questions about media freedom, as there were reports of directives to refrain from covering the rally.

The Islamabad administration had taken extensive measures to block access to the rally site by placing containers on major roads, including the Grand Trunk (GT) Road and Attock Bridge, causing significant disruptions to traffic.

The rally is seen as a significant show of strength for PTI as the party rallies its base amidst a challenging political environment. The local administration’s actions in blocking roads and increasing security in Islamabad highlight the tensions surrounding the event.