Imran Khan supporters have started a march on locked-down Islamabad to demand his release from jail, escalating Pakistan's political crisis. The march began in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, a PTI stronghold, on Sunday, according to party leaders.
Why Imran Khan Supporters Are Protesting
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party is demanding the release of Imran Khan, who has been imprisoned since 2023. Concerns have grown over the health of the 74-year-old former prime minister and cricket captain. Party colleagues and family claim he is being held in solitary confinement and has been denied visits by his doctor or relatives despite having a serious eye condition and high blood pressure.
Government Crackdown and Lockdown
The government has gone to extreme lengths to halt the protest, shutting down Islamabad and barricading the capital's entrances with shipping containers and sandbags. Khan's three sisters were among those detained last week on grounds of national security. Two rounds of negotiations between the government and PTI leaders took place over the weekend but broke down when Khan's allies insisted that he be part of political talks. Attaullah Tarar, the information minister, accused the PTI of "double standards and hypocrisy".
March Route and Growing Crowds
Thousands of supporters had joined the protest by Monday afternoon, and the crowds are expected to grow on the way to Peshawar, the main city in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which the marchers should reach by Wednesday. The march is a significant challenge to the government's authority.
Key Developments
- March began in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Sunday.
- Government lockdown includes barricades and shipping containers.
- Khan's sisters detained on national security grounds.
- Negotiations failed over weekend.
- Thousands join protest, more expected.
Comparison of Government vs. PTI Positions
| Issue | Government Stance | PTI Stance |
|---|---|---|
| Imran Khan's detention | Legal and necessary for national security | Political vendetta, illegal |
| Negotiations | Willing to talk without preconditions | Demands Khan's inclusion in talks |
| Protest | Illegal assembly, will be stopped | Democratic right to protest |
FAQ
Why are Imran Khan supporters marching?
They are demanding the release of Imran Khan from jail, citing concerns over his health and detention conditions.

Where is the march taking place?
The march started in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and is heading towards Islamabad, with plans to reach Peshawar by Wednesday.
How has the government responded?
The government has locked down Islamabad, barricaded entrances, and detained several PTI members, including Khan's sisters.
The situation remains tense as both sides stand firm. The international community is watching closely, as the crisis could have broader implications for Pakistan's stability.