PTI hints at calling off Nov 24 protest if breakthrough in talks
1. "Our protest will be called off only if our demands are met," says Imran Khan's lawyer
**RAWALPINDI:** Imran Khan, founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has hinted at calling off the planned protest on November 24 if progress is made in ongoing talks between PTI and the government. His lawyer, Faisal Chaudhry, stated that celebrations would replace the protest if there is any breakthrough by tomorrow, but otherwise, PTI is ready for peaceful demonstrations.
Following a meeting with Khan at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi, Chaudhry relayed that this would be the second protest call made by the PTI founder since the May 9 protest, which resulted in the ransacking of state installations. Khan emphasized that protests were now the only remaining option and stressed the importance of political parties in maintaining national unity.
Khan also expressed frustration over the restrictions on PTI, saying, "We are not allowed to hold rallies or gatherings." He reiterated his commitment to peaceful protests, adding that he had given the government until tomorrow to make progress in negotiations.
According to Chaudhry, Khan made it clear that talks would only proceed with those who hold real power. The PTI founder reiterated that the party's demands must be met as the basis for any dialogue, and the cancellation of protests would depend on whether these demands are accepted.
Chaudhry also dismissed reports claiming that PTI had spent Rs1 billion on protests, calling them baseless.
PTI has announced a "do-or-die" demonstration in Islamabad, led by Khan, who remains incarcerated in Adiala Jail. The party has repeatedly demanded his release and the return of its mandate, which it claims was stolen in the disputed February 8 elections.
For months, PTI has clashed with the incumbent government, organizing multiple marches to the federal capital, resulting in crackdowns on its leaders and supporters.
In response to PTI's protest, the Punjab government has taken a tough stance, warning that protesters will be treated as terrorists.
### **Security Measures**
As PTI refuses to back down from its protest call, the government has prepared for potential demonstrations, with both Punjab and Islamabad police seeking additional personnel to maintain law and order. Over 10,700 police officers from across Punjab are on standby, equipped with tear gas, rubber bullets, and anti-riot gear.
The Islamabad administration has also requisitioned 8,000 additional police officers from Punjab, Sindh, and Kashmir. In anticipation of unrest, Section 144 has been imposed in Islamabad, banning gatherings of more than five people for two months.
The Rangers and Frontier Corps (FC) are already deployed in the capital, and preparations are being made to seal off the city with shipping containers by Friday, November 22.
