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PTI’s Independence Day Rallies Marked by Clashes, Arrests, and Hammad Azhar's Resurgence
PTI’s Independence Day rallies in Lahore saw clashes with police, arrests, and a notable appearance by Hammad Azhar. Despite efforts to disperse the crowds, the party remains vocal in its support for Imran Khan.
ND
by News Desk
2024-08-15
PTI’s Independence Day Rallies Marked by Clashes, Arrests, and Hammad Azhar's Resurgence

PTI’s Independence Day Rallies Turn Chaotic: Clashes, Arrests, and Hammad Azhar’s Bold Return

LAHORE — Independence Day celebrations for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) turned tumultuous in Lahore, marked by police clashes, arrests, and a dramatic reappearance of PTI Punjab General Secretary Hammad Azhar after months of being in hiding.

On Wednesday, PTI’s Punjab parliamentarians, led by Opposition Leader Malik Ahmad Khan Bhachar, organized a rally that marched from the assembly gate to The Mall, culminating at GPO Chowk. Despite police attempts to block their path, the participants managed to reach their destination, chanting slogans and demanding the release of PTI founder Imran Khan and other detained leaders.

The rally quickly descended into chaos as police intervened, arresting over a dozen workers and physically confronting others. Hammad Azhar, who had largely remained out of the public eye since the violent protests of May 9 last year, made a brief appearance but managed to evade capture.

Azhar led a motorcycle rally through various Lahore streets, including Barkat Market and Ferozepur Road, before police dispersed the crowd at Kalma Chowk. Despite being wanted in connection with numerous FIRs, Azhar was shielded by a large group of supporters and was seen criticizing the government’s tactics and pledging support for Imran Khan’s leadership.

In a show of resilience, PTI workers and leaders continued their protest despite heavy police presence. Malik Ahmad Khan Bhachar condemned the government’s actions, equating them to oppression and vowing continued support for Khan.

In addition to the arrests in Lahore, Harappa police detained 11 PTI workers and booked 70 others for attempting to rally on the eve of Independence Day, while PTI MPA Hafiz Farhat Abbas announced his resignation from his leadership position due to ongoing legal issues.

The rallies and arrests underscore the ongoing tensions within Pakistani politics, as PTI remains vocal in its demands for political change and support for its leader. The situation highlights the growing divide between the government and opposition, with both sides grappling with the fallout from recent political upheavals.
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