At least seven people were killed and dozens injured as thousands of supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan clashed with police in Pakistans capital. The protests, dubbed a final call by Khans Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, escalated into one of the most violent demonstrations in recent years.

Bushra Bibi at the Helm

Led by Bushra Bibi, Khans wife and increasingly seen as PTIs de facto leader, the protesters flooded the streets of Islamabad, demanding Khans release and the resignation of the government, which they claim came to power through a rigged election. Bushra Bibis fiery leadership, particularly her public address at the iconic D-Chowk, has cemented her as a prominent figure in Pakistans ongoing political turmoil.

The unrest turned Islamabad into a container city, with authorities deploying over 700 shipping containers to block key routes in an effort to maintain order. Schools and shops were shuttered, internet services cut, and thousands of police officers patrolled the streets, scrutinizing citizens. The city, home to 2.4 million people, was brought to a standstill as PTI supporters breached barricades and staged sit-ins.

Tuesday saw the most intense clashes, culminating in the arrest of nearly 1,000 demonstrators. The protesters were eventually pushed back from D-Chowk early Wednesday, but the volatile atmosphere lingers, with many fearing further unrest.

Bushra Bibis emergence as the face of the protests has drawn significant attention. Mounted atop a truck near D-Chowk, she vowed to lead the sit-in until her husbands release. However, her involvement has also attracted legal scrutiny. Several cases have been filed against her in Punjab province, including charges of religious incitement, misleading the public, and violating the Telegraph Act of 1885.

A particularly controversial statement by Bushra Bibi linked her husbands troubles to a visit to the holy city of Madina, where he was photographed exiting a plane without shoes. Critics allege her comments insulted Saudi Arabia, though she and PTI claim the remarks were misinterpreted.

Imran Khans detention has heightened political tensions across Pakistan for months. His supporters view the charges against him as politically motivated, while the government insists they are legitimate. The latest protests underline the deep divisions within the country.

While the demonstrators have been dispersed, Islamabad remains on edge. The fear of another outbreak of violence looms large, disrupting daily life and exacerbating the already fragile political landscape.