Islamabad: (Web Desk) – Authorities imposed strict security measures around Parliament House on Friday as lawmakers affiliated with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) staged a protest, leading to the closure of key gates and restricted movement in the federal capital’s high-security Red Zone.
According to local media reports, heavy police contingents were deployed at the Parliament House entrance, while the main gate was sealed in anticipation of demonstrations by PTI parliamentarians. Armoured vehicles were stationed outside the premises, and major access routes, including Shahrah-e-Dastoor near Radio Pakistan Chowk, were completely blocked to control movement and prevent escalation.
Law enforcement officials reportedly barred both citizens and some members of the National Assembly from approaching Parliament House. PTI lawmakers, including MNA Iqbal Afridi and Umair Niazi, were stopped by police at Radio Pakistan Chowk as security forces tightened restrictions.
Despite the lockdown, opposition leaders managed to gather near Parliament House, where PTI parliamentarians protested outside the main gate after being unable to leave the premises due to closures. Demonstrators later moved toward another entrance within the parliamentary complex, staging a sit-in near the gate leading toward the Presidency and chanting slogans against the government.
The protest was led by Senate opposition leader Allama Raja Nasir Abbas, with participation from prominent opposition figures including Mahmood Khan Achakzai and Barrister Gohar.
Speaking to media earlier, Mahmood Khan Achakzai said the protest would remain peaceful, calling for authorities to allow the PTI founder to meet his personal physician and family members. He emphasized the need for a constructive resolution without further escalation, adding that adequate medical care should be ensured.
The developments underscore rising political tensions in Islamabad, with heightened security measures reflecting concerns over public order during opposition demonstrations. Authorities have not yet issued detailed comments on how long the restrictions around Parliament House will remain in place.
