Pakistani opposition: Imran Khan’s arrest will cross ‘red line’

Pakistani opposition leaders yesterday warned that authorities would cross a “red line” if they arrested former Prime Minister Imran Khan after he was reported under the Anti-Terrorism Act over comments he made regarding judicial system. Since his ouster in a vote of no confidence in April, Khan has held rallies across the country warning state institutions, including the military, not to support the coalition government led by his longtime political rival Shahbaz Sharif. Hundreds of people gathered outside Khan’s house yesterday, apparently to block police access, but Khan has been facing multiple charges for months and has yet to be arrested. For his part, former Information Minister Fuad Chaudhry tweeted, “Wherever you are, go to Bani Jala today and show solidarity with Imran Khan,” referring to Khan’s home. “Imran Khan is our red line,” he added. The initial police report was filed Sunday as the first step in a process that could lead to formal charges and an arrest. A minor police presence was seen near Khan’s residence on Monday as about 500 supporters of his party gathered in the affluent suburb. Khan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s Pakistani party said in a statement that the latest accusations against him were “unfounded”. “We have serious concerns about this politically motivated step, which leads to increased instability in the country,” he added.