Karachi police Saturday resorted to baton charge and tear gas shelling against a rally of Jamaat-e-Islami near the Sindh Assembly, while protesters allegedly responded with stone-pelting, leading to clashes and multiple detentions.
According to reports, several Jamaat-e-Islami workers managed to reach the main gate of the Sindh Assembly after breaching barricades erected by police.
A scuffle broke out between demonstrators and law enforcement personnel as authorities attempted to push the crowd back.
Police officials said more than 10 workers were taken into custody during the operation.
The sound system truck accompanying the rally was also seized.
Law enforcement authorities claimed that at least three police personnel were injured due to stone-pelting by protesters.
The party has announced to launch a protest campaign against the Sindh government for the price hike and lawlessness.
Heavy police contingents equipped with batons were deployed on Court Road, where demonstrators reportedly tried to break through barriers and march toward the assembly building.
Earlier, negotiations had taken place between Jamaat-e-Islami lawmaker Farooq Farhan and police officials.
However, talks failed after police decided not to permit a sit-in outside the Sindh Assembly, maintaining that protesters would not be allowed to approach the assembly premises.
Jamaat-e-Islami workers began marching toward the provincial assembly after initial talks with the police administration broke down.
In response, police attempted to disperse the crowd by firing tear gas shells and carrying out a baton charge.
Authorities had earlier placed police mobiles and buses along key routes to block access to the assembly building.
The situation remained tense in the area as police continued to enforce restrictions to prevent further escalation.
Speaking on the occasion, Muhammad Farooq said Jamaat-e-Islami is a peaceful party and intended to stage a peaceful sit-in outside the Sindh Assembly.
He assured authorities that no damage or stone-pelting would take place during the protest and that workers had been dire
