Speaking to the media in Karachi, Sharjeel Memon said Jamaat-e-Islami violated restrictions in Saturday’s protest in front of the Sindh Assembly and tried to enter the Red Zone.

The minister questioned the party’s leadership, especially JI Karachi’s head, Monem Zafar and his decision to challenge the law.

He said Jamaat-e-Islami had already been informed that it would not be permitted to enter the Red Zone.

According to the senior minister, JI workers allegedly tried to force their way into the restricted area and also attempted to enter the Sindh Assembly building.

He claimed that JI workers resorted to stone-pelting in the Red Zone.

Police and the district administration remained in constant coordination to manage the situation, he added.

Sharjeel Memon said the party had been clearly told it could hold a peaceful protest but would not be allowed to enter the Red Zone.

He added that blocking major roads severely affects ordinary citizens and disrupts daily life.

He alleged that at times, Sharea Faisal is blocked and at other times attempts are made to storm the assembly, creating chaos across the city.

The minister said the government was open to negotiations but maintained that Jamaat-e-Islami must also review its conduct.

He alleged that the party was pursuing a politics of agitation, adding that eight towns of Karachi had been badly affected by the unrest.