Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, currently imprisoned, has pledged to approach the United Nations (UN) and other global platforms to highlight what he calls the “Islamabad massacre”. The incident allegedly occurred during a protest by his Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party in Islamabad on November 26. Khan compared the alleged firing on PTI workers to the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy of 1919.
Imran Khan’s Allegations
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Khan expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of PTI supporters.
- “Modern-day General Dyer”: Khan likened the forces responsible for the alleged violence to British officer General Dyer, who ordered the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
- Seeking International Attention: He vowed to raise the issue at forums like the UN.
- Call for Investigation: Khan demanded an independent judicial commission to probe the incident, urging the release of hospital records from Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
The PTI claims at least 12 workers were killed, hundreds injured, and over 6,000 arrested. Khan alleges live ammunition and snipers were used during the crackdown.
Government’s Response
The government dismissed Khan’s claims, maintaining that law enforcement agencies did not open fire on protesters. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz responded strongly, accusing PTI of spreading falsehoods:
- “Where are the bodies?”: Nawaz challenged PTI to provide evidence of the deaths.
- Allegations of Violence by PTI: She accused PTI workers of directly firing on law enforcement, leading to casualties among Rangers and police personnel.
- “Mastermind in Jail”: Nawaz suggested the protests were orchestrated by Khan from prison and alleged PTI hired trained terrorists for the rally.
The Political Fallout
This incident has intensified the political tension in Pakistan. PTI continues to demand:
- Imran Khan’s Release
- Judicial Independence
- Return of PTI’s Mandate
Maryam Nawaz blamed Khan for the unrest, stating, “If any life was lost, the person in Adiala Jail (Khan) is responsible.”
A Nation Divided
The Islamabad incident has left Pakistan polarized, with PTI supporters condemning the alleged violence and the government denying wrongdoing. As the international community watches, both sides are locked in a battle of narratives, further deepening the country’s political crisis.
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