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Sheikh Rashid’s Residence “Lal Haveli” in Rawalpindi Gets Attacked by a Mob

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In the late hours of yesterday evening in Rawalpindi, a PML-N rally marching in support of Nawaz Sharif, ‘coincidentally’ happened to pass by the residence of AML part leader Sheikh Rashid. And in the midst of emotions, the demonstration turned violent.

Source: Daily Pakistan

Many eye-witnesses claim the crowd exhibited their discontent against the recent dismissal of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif by chanting abuses aimed at PTI leader Imran Khan and a dedicated compatriot of PTI Sheikh Rashid, outside his residence. The PML-N supporter further went on to pelt Sheikh Rashid’s residence, Lal Haveli with stones and there were even violent altercations between Lal Haveli residents and PML-N fanatics. The mob led by Union Council leader Arya Mohallah tried to force their way into the residence by bearing firearms and weapons, but the imminent arrival of police and security forces, subdued the situation and no one was seriously injured.

Source: Samaa TV

In the aftermath of the incident, Sheikh Rashid lodged a formal FIR against the attack on his premises and called for an investigation into the matter He even held a press conference late last night, where he made some controversial statements against the former Prime Minister of Pakistan. Sheikh Rashid even stated that in the event of his death, Nawaz Sharif, Shahbaz Sharif and Capt. Safdar would be the potential culprits. There has been no official response from the Sharif camp to condemn such violent demonstrations, but the Chief Minister of Punjab, Shahbaz Sharif has taken notice of the incident.

This incident has spurred countless debates across the nation, with a public consensus in favour of Sheikh Rashid and many condemning the violent demonstration by the PML-N supporters. The PTI chairman, Imran Khan who is a close friend and ally of Sheikh Rashid, spoke out in his support by claiming that Nawaz Sharif is using hooligans and violent tactics to intimidate the judiciary and political opposition. He further added that they will not tolerate such events in the future and in the end, justice will be served. The former PPP politician Baber Awan also publically condemned the attack on Sheikh Rashid and called for an investigation on the matter.

Public opinion has also swayed in support of the charismatic Sheikh Rashid, with many viewing the attack on his residence as a ‘below the belt’ hit. The author also feels that the protest should have been non-violent and discontent should always be expressed peacefully. It may be unclear now, but this attack is a blessing in disguise for PTI. It will tarnish the image and credibility of the PML-N leadership and question the authenticity of their claim for power. Such acts of violence against politicians also highlight the pertaining safety issues in Pakistan and undermine the judiciary. The author also strongly feels that in order for Pakistan to progress as a nation, the people have to rise up and question the political ideologies of our leaders. But that’s just my opinion, and we would love to hear what you think about this incident? And how do you feel this story is going to unravel?

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