New Delhi, September 26, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Pakistan has tightened security measures across Islamabad and Rawalpindi ahead of a planned Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) long march, with the opposition party postponing its mobilisation from September 27 to October 4.
The PTI’s political committee decided to defer the march, which is being organised primarily to demand the release of party founder and jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi said the march would now begin from Peshawar on October 4.
The postponement came as authorities stepped up measures to restrict access to Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Roads, bridges and major routes leading to the twin cities have been blocked with shipping containers, while security personnel have been deployed in large numbers. Reports also said businesses and transport facilities in parts of Rawalpindi were ordered to shut ahead of the proposed mobilisation.
The security focus is particularly significant in Rawalpindi, which houses the Pakistan Army’s General Headquarters. The PTI has repeatedly accused the military establishment of targeting Khan and has made his release a central demand of its protest campaign.
The party has also called for the restoration of what it describes as constitutional and political rights, along with measures relating to healthcare in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and broader political reforms.
PTI leaders have maintained that the march will go ahead despite the road blockades. Afridi had earlier said the party would proceed even if authorities placed containers or other obstacles along the routes, while also describing the planned protest as peaceful.
The government, meanwhile, has warned against disruption of public life. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar criticised the postponement, claiming the PTI lacked preparations for the march.
The scale of the security arrangements has raised concerns about possible clashes if protesters attempt to breach the barricades and enter Islamabad or Rawalpindi. However, claims about anticipated casualties or the use of force remain assessments and cannot be treated as established outcomes.
The PTI’s revised October 4 schedule means the security restrictions and political tensions surrounding the proposed march are likely to continue into next week.
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