Amnesty calls for investigation into violent crackdown on PTI protesters in Islamabad

Amnesty International has called for a transparent investigation into a violent crackdown on Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protesters in Islamabad, where clashes with security forces resulted in multiple deaths and injuries. The PTI claimed at least eight of its supporters were killed during the unrest, while the government denied any state firing on protesters. Following intense confrontations, the PTI suspended its planned protest, citing government brutality. Nearly 1,000 protesters were arrested, and the Islamabad police reported significant injuries among law enforcement personnel. Data services in the capital have been restored after a four-day blackout. The situation escalated as the PTI accused the government of using excessive force, while officials described the protests as violent and damaging to public property. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif criticized the economic impact of the protests, stating they caused substantial losses to the national economy.