Tanzim Taqrim: Pakistan’s army says it is “fully ready” to spur the government in dispersing Islamist protesters blocking a highway in Islamabad.
On Saturday after police failed to distribute demonstrations the government asked the military to help restore order. However, the military’s statement appears to condemn the government’s way of handling of the situation by mentioning police had not been properly exploit. Around 200 people were injured and at least six people are believed to have been killed in the clashes. The army has asked for further clarification before ordering the deployment of troops.
Faizabad Interchange has been blocked by the demonstrators for several weeks, demanding the dismissal of Law Minister Zahid Hamid, whom they accuse of blasphemy.
Including Lahore and the southern port of Karachi, the protest has spread to other cities.
On Saturday, the government adjourned private news channels and blocked certain Social Medias including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram out of concern that live coverage of the police action could provoke religious sentiments. Local media said they are also remained blocked on Sunday. -Source: BBC news