The recent protests in Islamabad, Pakistan, following the arrest of former Prime Minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman, Imran Khan, have resulted in chaos and destruction. The situation has sparked concerns about the safety of citizens and the need for peaceful protesting. Among the voices calling for sensibility in the protests is popular actor, Maya Ali. In this article, we explore Maya Ali’s message to Imran Khan’s supporters and the importance of peaceful protesting.
The situation in Islamabad
The arrest of Imran Khan has triggered a wave of protests across Islamabad, with members of the PTI party and the general public taking to the streets. The protests have included sit-ins and clashes with the police, resulting in the arrest of PTI Sindh President Ali Zedi and numerous party workers. Unfortunately, some PTI supporters have resorted to violence, setting fire to vehicles, including waterboard trucks and a prison van, and engaging in stone-pelting incidents.
Maya Ali’s message
Amidst the chaos, Maya Ali took to her Instagram Story to urge people to protest sensibly without causing harm to others or themselves. She appealed to the protesters not to break anyone’s car mirrors, rob anyone, or hurt anyone who is out to support Imran Khan in any capacity. Maya Ali emphasized that the situation is serious and called for the need to handle it sensibly without causing any danger. She further added that those who are destroying things and causing havoc are not from them, and they know for sure who these people are. She ended her message with the hashtag #LiveLongImranKhan.
The importance of peaceful protesting
Maya Ali’s message highlights the importance of peaceful protesting. Protests are a fundamental aspect of democratic societies and a powerful tool to express dissent and demand change. However, protests can also lead to violence and destruction, causing harm to innocent citizens and damaging public property. Peaceful protesting allows citizens to express their views and demand change without resorting to violence. It also helps maintain law and order, prevents damage to public property, and ensures the safety of citizens and law enforcement personnel.
READ MORE: Former Pakistani PM Imran Khan arrested in Al-Qadir Trust case
How to protest peacefully
Maya Ali’s message also raises the question of how to protest peacefully. Firstly, it is essential to respect the rights of others and not cause harm to them or their property. Secondly, protesters should not engage in any form of violence, including stone-pelting, arson, and vandalism. Thirdly, it is crucial to follow the law and cooperate with law enforcement personnel. Fourthly, protesters should avoid blocking roads or disrupting public transport. Finally, it is important to maintain a peaceful atmosphere and avoid provocation.
The recent protests in Islamabad have highlighted the importance of peaceful protesting. Maya Ali’s message is a timely reminder of the need to protest sensibly without causing harm to others or oneself. The right to protest is a fundamental aspect of democracy, but it comes with responsibilities. Peaceful protesting ensures the safety of citizens and law enforcement personnel, prevents damage to public property, and helps maintain law and order. It is our responsibility as citizens to protest peacefully and demand change without resorting to violence.
