ISLAMABAD, Aug 5 (Alliance News): The main gate of the Parliament House in Islamabad was sealed with chains and padlocks on Monday amid heightened political tensions, as a heavy contingent of police and FC personnel surrounded the premises.
Sources indicate that arrests of opposition members, particularly from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), are likely.
The developments unfolded during a National Assembly session where PTI lawmakers had planned to register a protest.
Despite the passing of a resolution marking Kashmir Exploitation Day, the session remained tense due to PTI members’ repeated complaints about being denied the right to speak and the alleged mistreatment of their party.
PTI MNA Aamir Dogar lashed out at the government, saying, “You have sentenced our members to 10, 10 years. If you throw everyone out, what remains of this house? Ten members were expelled and no action was taken.”
In response, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq asserted, “Tell me, didn’t I issue a production order?”
Following the session, opposition alliance leaders Mehmood Khan Achakzai, Salman Akram Raja, and Latif Khosa departed for Adiala Jail to lead a protest, while some PTI members remained in the Parliament House. Sources say some PTI leaders advised against going to Adiala due to fears of arrest.
Meanwhile, police forces blocked the Parliament House entrance, deploying anti-riot vans and sealing exits.
The tense environment and unusual security buildup sparked speculations of possible arrests of PTI legislators involved in the protest strategy.
