Police Detain Several PTI Lawmakers in Pakistan

In a significant escalation of political unrest in Pakistan, police arrested numerous lawmakers from former Prime Minister Imran Khan's party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), following a large rally demanding his release from jail. The detentions, which included at least nine MPs, were executed under a newly enacted law aimed at restricting protests, leading to accusations of a crackdown on democracy. PTI leaders have condemned the police actions, alleging illegal entry into parliamentary premises, and have called for nationwide protests. National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq has pledged to investigate these claims and ensure legal action if necessary. The political turmoil is compounded by accusations from PTI that the ruling coalition is manipulating elections to exclude Khan, who has been imprisoned for over a year amid allegations of politically motivated charges. The situation remains tense as the PTI calls for fresh elections to resolve the political crisis.