Police clashed with Jamaat-e-Islami workers on Saturday, using teargas and baton charges as they marched toward the Sindh Assembly. The protest, organized under the “Jeenay Do Karachi Ko” campaign, demanded urgent attention to crumbling roads, blocked drains, and failing civic services.
Tensions escalated when protesters tried to push past barricades. In response, police fired teargas and used batons to push back the crowd. At least one JI worker sustained injuries, while several police personnel were hurt after protesters allegedly pelted stones.
Authorities also confiscated a sound system mounted on a truck participating in the rally and detained at least 10 workers. Despite these measures, several JI activists managed to reach the Sindh Assembly premises, moving past the barricades amid baton charges and teargas shelling.
Protesters Blocked, Sit-In Continues on Nearby Road
The situation remained tense throughout the afternoon. Police deployed a heavy contingent to prevent further escalation. Meanwhile, the protesters staged a sit-in on a nearby road after local authorities blocked all routes to the provincial legislature.
A JI spokesperson told the media that officials deliberately placed barricades along the assembly routes, forcing workers to halt their march. He added that party leaders, including Muslim Parvez, Abdul Razzaq, and Sindh Assembly member Muhammad Farooq, tried to negotiate with the administration. However, no representative from the local government appeared at the venue.
In addition, MPA Farooq emphasized that the protest would continue until authorities addressed the city’s civic challenges. “Our workers will not back down. We will continue the sit-in on the road until officials take meaningful action to improve Karachi’s roads, drainage, and public services,” he said.
Police Maintain Heavy Presence, Situation Remains Volatile
Meanwhile, law enforcement maintained strict control over the area, patrolling streets and monitoring the protest to prevent further clashes. The incident reflects the frustration of Karachi residents, and Jamaat-e-Islami pledged to continue advocating for urgent civic reforms.
