Nearly 1,000 civil society members have come together to demand action against those responsible for the recent vandalism of military installations. Following the attacks by enraged Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers, a rally was held at Karachi’s Sea View on Saturday, where over 300 cars and a large number of participants expressed solidarity with the Pakistan Army.
The rally was organized under the leadership of Dr. Ali Farhan, the Vice Chairman of Liaquat Medical and Dental College. Participants proudly waved Pakistani flags and displayed banners proclaiming their support for the Pakistan Army. They vehemently condemned the attacks and called for swift action against the individuals involved. Slogans in favor of the armed forces and law enforcement agencies were also raised during the demonstration.
These acts of vandalism were sparked by the arrest of PTI Chairman Imran Khan from the premises of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) on May 9 in relation to the Al-Qadir Trust case. The ensuing violent protests lasted several days, resulting in the loss of at least 10 lives and numerous injuries. Internet services were suspended for over 72 hours as tensions escalated.
During the unrest, PTI supporters looted the Lahore Corps Commander House, commonly known as Jinnah House, and set it on fire. Additionally, the General Headquarters in Rawalpindi was attacked. In response, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) declared May 9 as a “Black Day,” expressing profound disappointment that individuals driven by their political ambitions had caused unprecedented damage to the country, surpassing the actions of its enemies throughout history.
The ISPR criticized PTI leaders for their hypocrisy, simultaneously inciting their workers against the armed forces while attempting to overshadow their criticism by praising the military.
The ruling coalition also denounced the attacks, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif ordered the arrest of all those involved within 72 hours. The government announced a reward of Rs200,000 for anyone providing information about the vandals.
Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, in a determined statement, vowed to ensure that all planners, abettors, instigators, and executors of the vandalism on the “Black Day” face justice.
Meanwhile, PTI Chairman Imran Khan distanced himself from the attacks and called for an independent investigation to uncover the truth behind the events.