Islamabad: In the past five years, the federal government has spent over one billion rupees on security measures to prevent protests and sit-ins in the capital, Islamabad. Official records reveal that the expenses were primarily incurred on law enforcement deployment, barricades, and crowd control equipment.
According to sources, the government allocates significant funds annually to manage potential disruptions, with major expenses directed towards police reinforcements, anti-riot gear, and logistical support. A substantial portion of the budget has also been used to accommodate additional security personnel brought in from other provinces during high-risk demonstrations.
Experts argue that while such expenditures are necessary for maintaining law and order, they highlight the growing trend of political and social unrest in the country. Critics believe that instead of focusing solely on suppressing protests, the government should address the root causes of public grievances through dialogue and policy reforms.
Over the years, Islamabad has witnessed several large-scale demonstrations, including those by political parties, religious groups, and government employees demanding better rights. Each of these events has required extensive security arrangements, contributing to the billion-rupee expenditure.
As the political climate remains tense, authorities are expected to continue investing heavily in protest management. However, analysts warn that excessive spending on security without addressing underlying issues could further fuel public discontent.
