PTI march tensions rise as emergency preparations reported

The federal government is considering possible constitutional measures in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as political tensions intensify over the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) planned long march and the province’s security situation. Sources say preparations have been completed for a possible emergency or governor’s rule, although the final decision may depend on the outcome of negotiations between government and opposition representatives.

According to sources, the preparations include proposed administrative changes involving deputy commissioners, government secretaries and senior police officials. Lists of potential appointments for regional and district police positions have also reportedly been prepared.

One proposal under consideration involves initially imposing an emergency in 12 districts of the province. However, no official announcement has confirmed that the government has decided to implement any of these measures.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called an important meeting on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s security situation at the Prime Minister’s House. Senior federal ministers and officials from the Ministry of Interior are expected to brief him on the latest developments.

Sources say the possibility of imposing an emergency may be discussed during the meeting. If the government decides to proceed, the proposal would require approval from the federal cabinet. A cabinet meeting is also expected to be convened soon, with members reportedly instructed to remain in Islamabad.

The developments come as the government considers its response to the evolving political and security situation in the province. The possible use of constitutional measures remains linked to consultations and negotiations between the two sides.

Meanwhile, senior PTI leaders are expected to meet Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi to discuss the political situation, communications with the federal government and preparations for the party’s long march.

PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar and other senior party figures are expected to participate in the meeting, according to sources. Important decisions concerning the protest strategy and the party’s next course of action may also be discussed.

The planned meeting comes amid continued uncertainty over negotiations between the government and opposition. The outcome could influence the next steps in the PTI’s protest movement and the federal government’s response.

Separately, more than 700 police personnel deployed in Rawat near Islamabad have reportedly complained about inadequate food and accommodation arrangements. The officers were summoned from different parts of Punjab ahead of the PTI’s planned march.

Videos circulating from the location show personnel raising concerns about poor-quality food, insufficient accommodation, unhygienic toilet facilities and water shortages. The complaints have drawn attention to the conditions faced by police officers deployed for security duties during the political mobilisation.

The government has yet to announce a final decision on emergency measures in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. For now, political negotiations, security consultations and preparations for the anticipated protest remain central to the developing situation.