India Concerned About Security Of Diplomats In Pakistan, Tighten Vigil Around Border Amid Unrest

India expressed its concern over the security of the Indian diplomatic mission and diplomats in Islamabad and defence forces kept a close vigil along the Line of Control and International Border

PTI supporters block the road by torching tyres during protest.

Source : Getty Images

As the situation deteriorates in Pakistan following the arrest of former Pakistan Prime Minister and Pakistan Tehreek e Insaf chief Imran Khan in the Al Qadir Trust graft charges, India expressed its concern over the security of the Indian diplomatic mission and diplomats in Islamabad. As the news of his arrest spread, protests broke out in various places in Pakistan. The enraged protestors stormed the house of the army corps commander in Lahore and set fire to it. They also barged into the Army headquarters in Rawalpindi. 

Indian defence forces were also keeping a close vigil along the Line of Control and International Border while following developments in the neighbouring country as the unrest grew over the day.

"Indian defence forces are on a vigil and are keeping a close watch on the situation in Pakistan, in view of the developments there. Strong vigil being maintained by the forces along the Line of Control and the international border," reported ANI quoting a source as saying.  

The 70-year-old cricketer-turned-politician was arrested from Islamabad High Court premises today in the Al Qadir Trust graft case where he and his wife Bushra Bibi have been alleged that they obtained billions of rupees from a real estate firm for legalising Rs 50 billion.

Incidents of stone pelting at the residence of Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah in Faisalabad city. Protests also took place in Multan, Jhang, Gujranwala, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Khanewal, Vehari, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, and Gujrat cities. Supporters of the party also took to the streets in London staging protests outside the Pakistan High Commission. 

Amid reports of arson and stone pelting, mobile broadband services were suspended across the country and prohibitory orders were imposed in Islamabad and Punjab. Access to social media sites Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube was also restricted while the party gave calls for nationwide protests.

The police resorted to the use of tear gas and water cannons to disperse the demonstrators.

Earlier in the day, dramatic scenes prevailed outside the Islamabad High Court as Imran Khan was arrested by a huge contingent of paramilitary Rangers. 

In a video message before his hearing, the former Pakistani premier hinted towards his arrest in an “illegitimate case”. “By the time you hear my words, I would be arrested in an illegitimate case,” Khan said in the video.