ISLAMABAD, Pakistan — The federal cabinet of Pakistan, following an order by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, has formed a team to investigate sources of news reports claiming fatalities among supporters of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party during recent protests.
According to Pakistani media, the government has dismissed the reports of protester deaths as “false and fabricated.” The cabinet-appointed team is tasked with identifying individuals involved in disseminating what officials have described as “fake news.”
The controversy stems from allegations by PTI leaders, including former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who claim that at least 12 of their supporters were killed by security forces during clashes in Islamabad last week.
Ali Gohar, a senior PTI official, reiterated the claim in interviews outside Adiala Jail, stating, “We are a democratic party and do not make irresponsible statements. The number of 12 deaths we provided is based on confirmed details.”
However, the Prime Minister’s Office has categorically rejected these claims. The investigation team will reportedly scrutinize all media campaigns related to the protests, which took place from November 24 to November 27, to identify those responsible for spreading misinformation.
The protests
The demonstrations began as a march by approximately 10,000 PTI supporters from Peshawar to Islamabad, demanding the release of Imran Khan, who was ousted from power in 2022. Security forces, reportedly numbering 20,000, deployed tear gas to disperse the demonstrators.
The protests escalated into violent clashes in Islamabad’s Red Zone. PTI leadership ultimately called off the planned sit-in early Wednesday, citing concerns over escalating violence and potential loss of life.
In the aftermath of the protests, the government has reportedly initiated legal proceedings against Bushra Bibi, Imran Khan’s wife, and Ali Amin Gandapur, the former Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, in connection with the unrest.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Anti-Terrorism Court issued non-bailable arrest warrants on Monday for Imran Khan, his wife, and 94 other PTI members, intensifying the legal pressures on the party’s leadership.
