Federal Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has claimed that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founding chairman Imran Khan had agreed to a suggestion to change the location of the protest, but his wife, Bushra Bibi, did not accept the proposal.
Overview of the Controversy
In a recent media interaction in Sialkot, Federal Defence Minister Khawaja Asif shed light on the events surrounding PTI’s sit-in protest on November 24. According to Asif, Imran Khan initially agreed to a change in the protest venue. However, Bushra Bibi, Khan’s wife, insisted on proceeding to D-Chowk, leading to a chaotic situation.
The Lead-Up to the Protest
Initial Agreement and Subsequent Rejection
Asif revealed that the PTI leadership was offered several alternative locations for their protest to avoid confrontation and ensure public safety. Imran Khan, understanding the potential risks, had agreed to the government’s proposal to change the venue. However, Bushra Bibi overruled this decision, insisting that the protest should march towards D-Chowk.
Security Forces and the Protest
As the protestors, led by PTI, crossed barricades and made their way to Islamabad, security forces, including Rangers and police, faced significant resistance. The clashes resulted in the martyrdom of several security personnel and injuries to hundreds of others. Asif commended the security forces for their bravery in preventing what he termed as the third attack on the federal government.
Criticism of PTI Leadership
Retreat and Lack of Resolve
Asif did not hold back in his criticism of the PTI leadership, accusing them of fleeing the scene when confronted with genuine resistance. He described their retreat as unprecedented in any war or movement, suggesting a lack of resolve and commitment to their cause.
Bushra Bibi’s Role
Highlighting Bushra Bibi’s involvement, Asif noted that she expressed concern over the large crowd size, questioning, “Who will go there now?” Her insistence on proceeding to D-Chowk, despite the agreed change in venue, escalated the situation, leading to chaos and violence.
The Aftermath of the Protest
Leaders’ Escape
Recounting the aftermath, Asif mentioned that PTI leaders, including Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa’s Ali Amin Gandapur, faced significant difficulties in escaping the scene. Gandapur’s vehicle was reportedly hit by bricks as they fled, eventually resurfacing in Mansehra.
Discrepancies in Fatality Reports
Addressing the reported deaths during the protests, Asif pointed out discrepancies in the numbers provided by PTI leaders. While Sardar Latif Khisa initially reported 278 deaths, the actual figures were revised down to single digits. Asif criticized the lack of evidence supporting claims of mass killings, noting the absence of videos, statements from families of the deceased, or concrete proof of widespread bloodshed.
Injuries and Verifications
While injuries were reported, Asif maintained that no one had been able to verify the number of fatalities, casting doubt on the credibility of PTI’s claims.
Positive Developments for PIA
Resumption of European Flights
In a shift from the protest narrative, Asif welcomed the resumption of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights to Europe. He called this a positive step that would help the national carrier capture a larger share of the European market.
Impact on Privatization
Asif added that the decision to restore European routes would benefit PIA’s privatization process by increasing its market presence and improving its financial standing.
FAQs
What was the original protest venue agreed upon by PTI and the government?
Imran Khan initially agreed to a proposal to change the protest venue from D-Chowk to a less confrontational location. However, this plan was not implemented due to Bushra Bibi’s insistence on D-Chowk.
How did the security forces respond to the PTI protest?
Security forces, including Rangers and police, faced significant resistance from protestors. Several personnel were martyred, and hundreds were injured in the clashes.
What criticisms did Khawaja Asif level against the PTI leadership?
Asif accused the PTI leadership of fleeing the scene when faced with resistance, showing a lack of resolve. He specifically criticized Bushra Bibi for insisting on the D-Chowk location despite the agreed change.
What discrepancies did Asif point out in the reported fatalities during the protests?
Asif highlighted that PTI leaders provided conflicting reports about the number of fatalities. While initial reports suggested 278 deaths, the actual figures were revised down to single digits, with no concrete evidence to support claims of mass killings.
How will the resumption of PIA’s European flights benefit the national carrier?
Asif stated that the resumption of European flights would help PIA capture a larger share of the European market and benefit its privatization process by increasing its market presence and improving financial standing.
