Punjab’s Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed law enforcement authorities to handle protesters with empathy following Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s martyrdom. In a message shared on social media, she emphasized that officials should understand the demonstrators’ sentiments and treat them with dignity.
Maryam Nawaz announced arrangements for Iftar meals to be provided for the protesters as part of her directive. She noted that every Muslim is currently grieving and in tears over Khamenei’s passing but added that maintaining peace remains a collective responsibility.
“We must uphold this duty, especially during these times of sorrow,” she said, pledging solidarity with fellow Muslims worldwide.
Earlier, nine people were killed and 18 injured after protesters clashed with law enforcement personnel near Karachi’s US Consulate. A hospital official reported the incident. According to Edhi Welfare Organization, law enforcement officials used teargas shells and baton charges to control the situation.
To manage the crowd, authorities temporarily closed roads connecting Sultanabad to Mai Kolachi, and redirected traffic from Jinnah Bridge via I.I. Chundrigar Road to prevent congestion.
Officials have urged residents to avoid the area as security forces continue to manage the protests and ensure public order.