The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest entered its second day on Monday, with convoys from various regions of Pakistan continuing their journey towards the federal capital, Islamabad. The protest, organized by the opposition party, has sparked widespread demonstrations, with significant mobilization from Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Convoys led by prominent PTI figures, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and Opposition Leader in the National Assembly, Omar Ayub, have crossed provincial boundaries in their bid to reach Islamabad. As Gandapur's convoy from Swabi entered the boundaries of Punjab, tensions escalated when police fired shells at the convoy near Attock Bridge, Chhich Interchange, and Ghazi Barutha Canal. In response, PTI altered its strategy, directing convoys from Hazara Division to turn back from Taxila and regroup at the Burhan Rest Area of the Motorway.

Further clashes occurred when Omar Ayubís convoy, which had reached Taxila, encountered police resistance at a checkpoint. However, PTI workers reportedly advanced, causing police forces to retreat. Despite this, the convoy was able to cross the police barrier at Gango Bahtar and successfully entered Punjab. A separate convoy, led by Taimur Masood from Taxila, joined Ayub's group along the way. Amid the protests, the Punjab Police made several arrests, including PTI Chief Whip Aamir Dogar and leader Zain Qureshi at the Qadirpuran Toll Plaza in Multan. Rawalpindi Police also apprehended candidate NA-52 Colonel Ajmal Sabir Raja and MPA PP-11. In total, 75 PTI workers were arrested in Faisalabad, and 20 vehiclesócomprising 16 cars and 4 coastersówere seized.

Police also dispersed protesters who had gathered near Faizabad Interchange, forcing them to retreat towards Sohan. Federal police deployed shells near the Faizabad Bridge in an attempt to control the crowd. In anticipation of further unrest, all educational institutions in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Murree district have been closed today. The decision was made to ensure the safety and security of students and staff in light of the ongoing protests. As the situation continues to unfold, PTI's nationwide protest appears to intensify, with party leaders urging their supporters to press on despite government efforts to contain the movement.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan