Sat Oct 05 13:06:00 UTC 2024: ## PTI’s March to Islamabad: Invitation to Indian FM Sparks Outrage

**Islamabad:** Tensions are escalating in Pakistan as workers of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) continue their march towards Islamabad. The party, led by former Prime Minister Imran Khan, is protesting against the current government.

The situation took a dramatic turn when Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif, the Adviser to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister on Information, announced that PTI would invite Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar to attend their protest.

Saif stated that the invitation is a testament to Pakistan’s democratic spirit and the right to protest. However, his remarks have been met with strong criticism from the government and other political parties.

Federal Defence Minister Khawaja Asif condemned PTI’s actions, alleging that the party is using the head of a province to attack another and attempting to exploit the ongoing SCO-CHG meeting in Islamabad. He also accused PTI of harboring armed groups, including members of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), and questioned their loyalty to the country.

PML-N Senator Irfan Siddiqui echoed Asif’s concerns, highlighting that PTI’s decision to invite only Jaishankar raises serious questions about their intentions. He further pointed out the irony of inviting the Indian FM, considering the violent incidents that took place on May 9, which the party is accused of instigating.

Information Minister Ataullah Tarar also expressed concerns about PTI’s narrative, questioning why they chose to invite only Jaishankar.

Amidst the controversy, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan clarified that Saif’s comments were taken out of context and PTI’s policy towards India remains aligned with Pakistan’s foreign policy. He also assured that the party will ensure the smooth conduct of the SCO meeting and that their protest is a one-day demonstration, not a sit-in.

The government, meanwhile, has deployed the army in Islamabad and Punjab to manage the situation, as PTI workers continue their march towards D-Chowk. The protest has heightened political tensions and the potential for further unrest remains a concern.

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