PTI workers responded by throwing stones at police. Eyewitnesses confirmed that several workers were arrested during the clash. The standoff created tension in the area for hours.
The protest began when police stopped PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar and the sisters of PTI founder Imran Khan. They were attempting to visit the jailed leader despite restrictions. Aleema Khan then led a sit-in with party workers. Supporters crossed barricades and chanted slogans against the government. The crowd grew steadily as night progressed.
Aleema addressed the gathering and urged workers to stay peaceful. She said police officers were acting under pressure and were “our brothers.” She claimed the police reacted strongly because many women were present. She accused authorities of blocking family visits for weeks. She also called the restrictions “mental torture.”
Meanwhile, negotiations between police and PTI leaders continued. Police returned five vehicles but had seized 14 during the operation. PTI leaders demanded all vehicles back before ending the protest. On the other hand, Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar stated that a meeting with the PTI founder was impossible after any legal violation. He said all restrictions were enforced under the law, not personal choice.