The United States has called for arrests to be carried out in accordance with the law amid the ongoing crackdown on Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders and workers after the recent violent riots. Spokesperson Vedant Patel’s statement came as scores of PTI workers and leaders have been arrested over their alleged role in violent protests triggered by party chief Imran Khan’s arrest on May 9 in Al-Qadir Trust case. He said government employees or public properties should not be damaged during the protests and added that the US position on access to information, and press freedom is clear. The situation remains tense as the political crisis deepens. It remains to be seen how the government will respond to the latest developments.
The government has defended the crackdown, saying it is necessary to maintain law and order and to prevent further violence. They have also accused the PTI of inciting violence and of being a threat to national security. The PTI has denied these accusations and has said that the crackdown is an attempt to silence dissent and to suppress the democratic process. They have also accused the government of using excessive force and of targeting political opponents.
The government’s use of excessive force is a cause for concern as the situation is complex and there are a variety of factors at play. The crackdown on PTI workers and leaders is just one part of the story. The crackdown on PTI workers and leaders began on May 10 the day after Imran Khan was arrested and his workers resorted to violence. The crackdown has been met with widespread criticism from human rights groups and opposition parties. They have accused the government of using excessive force and of targeting political opponents. The situation demands the government handled the case with care, allowing workers to use their right to protest. Arrests will make the situation worse.