PDM rally: Interior minister rejects allegations of arresting opposition leaders

(Karachi) Interior Minister Ijaz Shah has rejected allegations by opposition parties that their leaders have been arrested ahead of the Pakistan Democratic Movement's (PDM) public gathering in Gujranwala, media reported on Friday.

Commenting on the matter, Ijaz Shah said that none of the leaders have been arrested in connection with the rally. He stated that containers have been placed only to stop the movement of the vehicles towards the route of the public gathering venue. "No one is being stopped from going to Jinnah Stadium," he added.

The interior minister pointed out that such allegations are levelled by the opposition, whenever they hold public rallies. He remarked, "The Interior Ministry will act according to Prime Minister Imran Khan’s advise in this regard."

Earlier today, PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto accused the government of blocking the route of the rally by putting up containers. He claimed that houses of several PPP leaders were raided by police while scores of party workers were arrested.

Similarly, PML-N Vice-President Maryam Nawaz also alleged that the government is creating hurdles and using force to stop party workers from reaching the venue. She added they would actively participate in the rally despite all blockages and arrests.

She also appealed to the Punjab Police and district administration to not intervene in the rally and use force against the PML-N workers.