Thousands of Protesters Led by Imran Khan Breach 'Red Zone' in Islamabad
Updated: August 20, 2014 00:43 IST
Pakistan Opposition leader Imran Khan and cleric Tahir-ul-Qadri on Tuesday night marched with thousands of their supporters to enter the heavily fortified 'Red Zone', Islamabad's diplomatic and political enclave. In this picture, Mr Khan is seen addressing his supporters as they march towards Parliament.
Thousands of protesters seeking to overthrow Pakistan's prime minister entered the high-security "red zone" government district of Islamabad. The protesters are being led by cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan and cleric Tahir-ul-Qadri.
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has said he will not resign under any circumstance, Dawn News reported quoting sources.
The Pakistan government deployed the Army to maintain peace in the area. But unfazed, Mr Khan and Mr Qadri marched towards Parliament demanding Mr Sharif's resignation, putting his government on the backfoot.
Anti-government protesters entered the Red Zone, even as clashes took place between them and the police at Serena Chowk where they removed shipping containers, reports in Pakistan media said.
The Red Zone houses important government buildings including Parliament House, Prime Minister's House, President's House, the Supreme Court and embassies of various countries.
Information Minister Pervaiz Rashid told Geo TV that the marchers have violated written commitment that they will not enter the Red Zone.
Red alert was issued at capital's Polyclinic Hospital and Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), the two leading state-run medical facilities. Arrangements for additional medicines, emergency operations and extra beds were also made at the two hospitals.
