Speculation is rife in Indian media over a perceived shift in the Pakistani government’s approach toward Imran Khan, sparked by images of Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, who were previously at odds during the Islamabad protests, appearing together in a seemingly amicable setting.
According to Indian reports, the visuals signal a potential easing of hostilities between these opposing factions, suggesting a political realignment.
The initial dialogue between Pakistan’s government and the opposition, which took place on Monday, has been portrayed by Indian outlets as a positive step toward addressing contentious matters, including the detention of political figures such as Imran Khan.
Reports further ssuggested that dropping the military court case against Khan might be under consideration.
While official demands from the PTI (Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf) are yet to be submitted, analysts believe securing Khan’s release remains a key agenda point.
The discussions, aimed at reducing tensions between political rivals, are set to continue on January 2nd.
Indian media hints that the ruling party, believed to have the establishment’s backing, may have yielded to some opposition demands due to increasing global scrutiny.
While domestic instability and the need for political reconciliation are driving factors, international pressure appears to have played a pivotal role.
Human rights advocates and prominent figures have amplified calls for Imran Khan’s release.
Global voices, including those of Richard Grenell, an ally of former US President Donald Trump, British MP George Galloway, and ex-Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, have condemned Khan’s imprisonment. PTI recently highlighted this growing international support, tweeting that influential leaders worldwide are rallying for his freedom.
Adding to the chorus, former Scottish First Minister Hamza Yusuf expressed concern over Khan’s detention during an address at the Oxford Union. Meanwhile, former US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad, in a December 19th post, criticized the Pakistani government’s treatment of political dissent, urging diplomatic pressure and sanctions.
Khalilzad, a figure closely associated with Pakistan during Khan’s tenure, had previously questioned the rationale behind Khan’s detention, linking it to the broader implications of Donald Trump’s political resurgence in the US.
