Imran Khan’s release demanded as Pakistan faces war threat and calls grow for Army Chief’s resignation

Amid rising tensions with India following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people and injured 17, Pakistan’s government and military face mounting pressure at home. As the country assesses possible Indian responses, domestic unrest has intensified over the continued detention of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Public frustration has grown on social media, where thousands of users are demanding Khan's release and calling out the army's alleged role in destabilising peace.

Imran Khan, a former cricketer-turned-politician, was removed from office in April 2022 after falling out with the army. He led widespread protests against the military before being arrested. Following his detention, Khan’s supporters stormed military sites, including the army headquarters in Rawalpindi and the ISI building in Faisalabad. Now, after the Pahalgam attack, Khan’s supporters are using social media to revive the campaign for his release, with some alleging that the army chief orchestrated the attack.

Data shows that the hashtag #ReleaseKhanForPakistan featured in more than 300,000 posts. Another tag, #FreeImranKhan, appeared in over 35,000 posts by 2,500 users in the week ending April 29. The official account of Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), used these hashtags more than 35 times. Other popular tags include #RestoreAccessToImranKhan, #PakistanUnderMilitaryFascism, and #FreeKhanToLeadPakistan, reflecting widespread discontent against the military leadership.

PTI-affiliated user @indoraptorPti posted, “If India is going to attack Pakistan, then Imran Khan should be released immediately and taken to his residence.” In the Pakistani Senate last Monday, PTI Senator Shibli Faraz called for Khan’s immediate release and demanded his inclusion in key national decisions. On April 25, PTI’s 29th foundation day, party members intensified their campaign to end Khan’s detention.

Simultaneously, criticism of Army Chief General Asim Munir is increasing. Hashtags such as #ResignAsimMunir, #UndeclaredMartialLaw, and #BoycottFaujiDhanda have trended widely. The Pakistani military has long been accused of influencing politics and blocking peace initiatives with India. With war fears escalating and political pressure mounting, the situation presents a dual challenge for the Pakistan government and its armed forces.