PPP, PTI workers clash in Karachi over May 12 rally venue

KARACHI: A fight broke out between the workers of PPP and PTI on Monday night over  their May 12 rally's venue. 

Both the parties announced that they would hold a rally at Hakim Said Ground on May 12.

According to reports, PPP and PTI supporters attacked each other camps at the ground and set ablaze motorcycles. 

Police have reached the scene to break up the protest. 

There were also reports of gunshots in the area. Traffic has been suspended . 

"PPPP goons has attacked PTI camp with stones & sticks. Police supporting them, several PTI workers injured," Khurram Sher Zaman, a PTI lawmaker, tweeted.

Speaking to Geo, PTI leader Naeem ul Haq condemned the PPP for resorting to violence. 

PPP's Shehla Raza said that her party had chosen the venue only after confirming from the city 's administration  about its availability on May 12. 

PPP’s Saeed Ghani said that his party had submitted a formal request at Deputy Commissioner office on May 3.

According to Deputy Commissioner East, PTI is yet to file an application. 

After the huge power show at Tanki Ground, Liaquatabad – a traditionally Muttahida Qaumi Movement stronghold – on April 29, the PPP is now preparing for its second such meeting to be addressed by party chief Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on May 12.

The president of PPP’s District East chapter has already sent a letter to the deputy commissioner east to obtain permission to hold the gathering.

The letter dated May 4 names the Hakim Mohammad Said playground, located between Federal Urdu University and Masjid Baitul Mukarram on main University Road, as the proposed venue for the public meeting.

According to the letter, PPP chief Bilawal, Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah and other senior leaders of the party will address the gathering.