Government mocks fleeing PTI leaders as protests escalate in Islamabad

Government officials mocked Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and former first lady Bushra Bibi for allegedly fleeing as law enforcement dispersed PTI protesters in Islamabad's D-Chowk. Protesters had gathered to demand the release of PTI founder Imran Khan amid heavy tear gas shelling by security forces. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi claimed that the area was cleared and that schools would reopen soon. He stated that mobile and internet services would be restored by morning. Meanwhile, the PTI denied reports of Gandapur and Bushra fleeing, calling them "fake news" and sharing footage of ongoing protests. The situation escalated with reports of violence, including the deaths of several law enforcement personnel during clashes. The government has deployed the army to maintain order, and Amnesty International has called for restraint and protection of protesters' rights amid ongoing tensions.