Islamabad: (Web Desk) – Sit-ins continued at multiple locations across the federal capital on Friday after negotiations between the government and opposition failed to produce a breakthrough, escalating political tensions in Pakistan.
Opposition leaders maintained demonstrations at three separate sites in Islamabad, demanding that former prime minister Imran Khan be granted immediate access to his personal and specialist physician. The talks reportedly ended without agreement after Federal Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry was unable to persuade Opposition Leader Mehmood Khan Achakzai to call off the protests.
Security measures were significantly tightened following the breakdown of dialogue. Authorities sealed all entry and exit points to Parliament, while the gates of Parliament Lodges were also closed. Reports indicated scuffles between police personnel and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) parliamentarians inside the Parliament Lodges compound, prompting the Sergeant-at-Arms to hand over security responsibilities to law enforcement agencies.
In Islamabad’s high-security Red Zone, heavy police deployment was observed, with key routes blocked and prisoner transport vehicles stationed nearby as a precautionary measure. The heightened security environment reflects concerns over potential escalation amid ongoing political demonstrations.
Separately, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi staged a sit-in at the entrance of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa House after he and several provincial assembly members were reportedly prevented from reaching Parliament House.
The political standoff highlights deepening divisions between the government and opposition, particularly over issues related to the treatment and rights of detained political figures. Observers say the continuation of protests could further strain political stability if negotiations fail to resume. Authorities have not announced any timeline for reopening restricted areas or resuming dialogue.
