The Pakistani government has deployed the military in Islamabad under Article 245 of the Constitution to help civil authorities maintain law and order amid growing violence.
Security sources confirmed that the army was called in after a series of attacks on law enforcement. Clear shoot-on-sight orders have been issued for those involved in violent acts. Authorities are also taking strong measures to counter any terrorist threats from anarchist or extremist groups.
On Tuesday, miscreants rammed a vehicle into Rangers personnel on the Srinagar Highway in Islamabad, killing four Rangers officers. Five others, including Rangers and police officials, were seriously injured. In separate incidents, two police officers were killed, and over 100 law enforcement personnel have been injured since the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) launched its protest march in the capital.
Under Article 245(1), the Constitution allows the armed forces to assist civil authorities in maintaining order. This directive cannot be legally challenged in court.
In a media briefing on Monday, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi urged PTI protesters to restrict their demonstrations to the Sangjani area, warning that they would not be allowed to enter Islamabad. He stated that the government is prepared to impose a curfew, deploy the army, or take “other measures” to ensure peace.
Naqvi stressed that the government has tried to avoid bloodshed but will respond firmly to violence. He warned that if protesters resort to firing, the government’s response will be equally forceful. He also clarified that PTI has been given the option to hold their protest in Sangjani, and any further violence will trigger strict action.
