ISLAMABAD – The political temperature in the capital continues to climb as Islamabad Police lodged yet another case against leaders and workers of the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), intensifying the already strained relationship between the party and state authorities.
The fresh FIR was registered at the Industrial Area police station under multiple sections of the Pakistan Penal Code, the Maintenance of Public Order regulations, and the Punjab Assembly (PAPO) Act. The complaint states that around 100 to 120 PTI supporters, many carrying batons, stones, iron rods, and slingshots, assembled at Faizabad with PTI flags in hand. The gathering allegedly blocked Murree Road, raised slogans against the government, police, and state institutions, and disrupted the flow of traffic.
According to police officials, Section 144 had been imposed in the area to prevent unlawful assemblies, yet the group defied the restrictions. Reinforcements were dispatched to the scene, resulting in the arrest of 23 individuals, while the remaining demonstrators dispersed into nearby streets. The FIR claims that the rally was intended to create chaos and instigate unrest in the capital.
Political Context
This development adds to the long list of cases registered against PTI leaders and workers since the May 9 incidents, when nationwide protests turned violent. The state has maintained a hard line against PTI’s street presence, framing such rallies as a law-and-order threat, while the party insists its political activities are a democratic right.
Observers note that the repeated registration of cases risks further polarizing an already divided political environment. Instead of dialogue, confrontation appears to have become the norm, with both sides digging in their heels. For PTI, every new FIR reinforces the narrative of political victimization. For the government and security apparatus, however, the measures are presented as necessary steps to maintain stability and public safety.
Escalating Strains
The continued filing of cases and arrests suggests the state’s policy of containment is unlikely to ease anytime soon. Analysts fear that these developments could push PTI supporters further towards street agitation, creating a cycle of protests, arrests, and more FIRs.
With no sign of rapprochement in sight, the rift between PTI and state institutions shows little chance of healing soon. The situation underscores the widening gulf in Pakistan’s political order, raising concerns over governance, rule of law, and the democratic space for opposition.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.