KARACHI: While workers of the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf held protests in many cities and towns across Sindh, heavy police deployment and barricades surrounded the Karachi Press Club on Friday as leaders and workers of the opposition party tried to gather there to protest the “deteriorating health condition” of former prime minister Imran Khan and the alleged denial of proper medical treatment.

The personnel of law-enforcement agencies were posted at all entry and exit points of the Karachi Press Club, effectively restricting public movement through tight security.

However, the PTI workers and leaders tried to reach the press club, but most of them could not make it to the venue.

Later, they staged a demonstration on Abdullah Haroon Road. A large number of women activists also took part in the demonstration.

Police block roads leading to KPC to foil agitation

Speaking on the occasion, PTI-Karachi president Raja Azhar demanded that Imran Khan be shifted to the Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital & Research Centre within 24 hours for urgent medical treatment.

“If Imran Khan is not provided proper medical care and all necessary facilities, protests will expand from Karachi to the entire country,” he warned, also calling for the former premier’s immediate release.

PTI leader Faheem Khan echoed similar concerns, stating that there would be “no compromise” on Imran Khan’s health. “Our leader must be given immediate medical treatment. We are not concerned about the hardships we face; our only concern is Imran Khan’s health.”

PTI-Karachi general secretary Arsalan Khalid demanded that personal doctors of Mr Khan be granted immediate access to him and that family visits be ensured without delay.“Imran Khan is fighting for the rights of the nation and enduring injustice. It is now a test for the nation to stand with its leader,” he said.

He claimed that Imran Khan’s eye condition had worsened and called for his urgent transfer to hospital.

He also alleged that attempts were being made to suppress peaceful protest through heavy police deployment.

“Public voices cannot be silenced through force,” he said, adding that citizens had already begun mobilising in support of the former prime minister.

Published in Dawn, February 14th, 2026