PTI Protest: Internet and Mobile Services to Face Partial Suspension in Islamabad, KP, and Punjab
As Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) prepares for a “do-or-die” protest on November 24, the federal government has decided to partially suspend internet and mobile services in Islamabad and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab.
According to sources, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) will activate its firewall for mobile internet on November 22, with service suspensions starting on November 23. The disruption may affect users’ ability to access or share media via social platforms.
The decision coincides with PTI’s call for a protest march in Islamabad, demanding the release of its founder, Imran Khan, and the restoration of what it claims is its stolen mandate from the February 8 elections. The possibility of the protest escalating into a sit-in has prompted authorities to prepare extensively, recalling previous confrontations between PTI workers and law enforcement.
The Punjab government has declared a firm stance against the demonstrators, with Provincial Information Minister Azma Bokhari stating that protesters would be treated as terrorists if necessary.
Despite the tension, reports suggest ongoing negotiations between the government and PTI, with the party hinting it may call off the protest if the talks yield positive results. PTI lawyer Faisal Chaudhry, speaking at Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail, quoted Imran Khan as expressing hope for progress but asserting protests remain the last option if restrictions persist.
Security Measures
Anticipating potential unrest, the Islamabad administration has imposed Section 144 for two months, banning public gatherings, processions, rallies, and demonstrations. Additional police forces, equipped with tear gas, rubber bullets, and anti-riot gear, have been placed on standby.
Islamabad has also requested 8,000 reinforcements from Punjab, Sindh, and Kashmir, while the Rangers and Frontier Corps (FC) remain deployed. By Friday, the capital may be sealed off with shipping containers to maintain control.
With over 10,700 police personnel in Punjab on standby, authorities are bracing for any escalation as the week unfolds.
