ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) has dismissed rumors circulating on social media regarding alleged deaths during the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest.

The hospital administration clarified that no fatalities among protesters have been reported. It noted that during the protest, 66 security personnel and 36 civilians were treated in the emergency department. Most were discharged after receiving initial medical attention, while a few remain under observation.

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also addressed the matter, accusing PTI supporters of spreading false claims about fatalities. “Since their retreat, they have been visiting hospitals looking for bodies to support their propaganda,” he said.

Naqvi emphasized that police were not armed with firearms during the protest and were equipped only with batons. He stated, “If even a single bullet had been fired, it would have caused an international uproar. They are trying to mask their embarrassment.”

He challenged PTI to provide evidence of the alleged deaths, including names and locations. He further noted that while injuries occurred due to stone pelting, claims of deaths are entirely baseless.

He concluded by acknowledging that both police personnel and protesters sustained injuries during the clashes but reiterated that allegations of fatalities have no merit.