Islamabad witnessed one of its darkest days on November 26, 2024, as a violent confrontation unfolded between the Pakistani military and protesters demanding the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Eyewitnesses reported chaotic scenes as demonstrators clashed with security forces, culminating in the military allegedly opening fire on civilians. While official figures remain contested, independent sources estimate that at least 100 people lost their lives, with some reports suggesting the death toll could reach as high as 120.
The protesters, largely supporters of Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, had entered Islamabad in a massive convoy led by Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi. Chanting slogans for “freedom” and “revolution,” they dismantled roadblocks and gathered near the Red Zone, a secured area housing government offices and foreign embassies. Their demands were clear: the immediate release of their jailed leader, who has been in custody since August 2023 on what his party describes as politically motivated charges.
Military Orders and Midnight Raids
The government, anticipating unrest, deployed the military to safeguard sensitive areas and granted troops “shoot-on-sight” orders to protect key installations. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif accused the protesters of endangering public safety and causing the deaths of paramilitary troops, who he claimed were attacked by armed demonstrators.
Later that evening, security forces launched a sweeping midnight raid to disperse the gathering. Tear gas filled the air as electricity to central Islamabad was reportedly cut, plunging the area into darkness. The protesters, unarmed according to PTI sources, were met with gunfire, resulting in widespread casualties. PTI spokesperson Zulfikar Bukhari refuted claims of armed resistance, stating that the demonstrators were engaging in a peaceful sit-in to demand justice.
Casualties and Accusations
The confrontation resulted in significant loss of life and injuries. Alongside reports of over 100 civilian deaths, at least four paramilitary soldiers and two police officers were killed. Amnesty International criticized the government’s “shoot-on-sight” policy as a violation of human rights, calling for restraint and adherence to international standards.
Both sides have traded blame for the violence. PTI leaders accused the military and police of firing live ammunition on peaceful protesters, while the government claimed the demonstrators provoked the violence. Adding to the unrest, journalists covering the protests were attacked, further raising concerns over press freedom during the political crisis.
A Nation Divided
This escalation underscores Pakistan’s deepening political divide. Since his ousting in 2022, Imran Khan has remained a polarizing figure, with widespread public support but staunch opposition from the government and military. His arrest last year sparked protests nationwide, and his supporters continue to demand his release and an end to what they describe as systematic suppression of dissent.
The events in Islamabad have drawn international condemnation and cast a shadow over Pakistan’s democratic and human rights record. Observers fear that the violence could further destabilize an already fragile political landscape.
What Comes Next for Pakistan?
As the dust settles on this tragic chapter, questions loom over Pakistan’s future. Will the government heed calls for accountability, or will this crackdown mark the beginning of further repression? For now, the nation remains on edge, with no clear resolution in sight.
How can Pakistan bridge the growing divide between its citizens and the state without further bloodshed?
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