Protest in Karachi turns violent as government employees clash with police

A protest by the Sindh Employees Grand Alliance in Karachi turned violent as government employees clashed with police while demanding salary and pension increases. The demonstrators attempted to march toward the Red Zone after failed negotiations with the provincial government, resulting in over 20 arrests.

The standoff began outside the Karachi Press Club, with police using batons, tear gas, and water cannons to disperse the protesters as they moved towards the restricted area. The clash escalated as protesters threw stones at law enforcement, leading to chaos and disruptions in the city.

Protesters chanted slogans against the provincial authorities, broke through barricades, and staged a sit-in near the Red Zone, prompting more tear gas shelling. The situation caused breathing issues for bystanders and resulted in a female police officer collapsing and being taken to the hospital.

To control the movement, police set up roadblocks on major roads like I.I. Chundrigar Road, causing significant traffic congestion. Earlier, access routes to the Press Club were closed off, affecting journalists and commuters.

In response, over 20 protesters were detained and held at local police stations. The DIG South emphasized the importance of maintaining law and order and stated that blocking roads will not be tolerated.

According to the source: Dunya News.