The United States has called on both sides to remain calm in Pakistan amid heated clashes between security forces and PTI supporters. Washington urged the Pakistani government to protect human rights and abide by the constitution. News from The Express Tribune

US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller said at a press conference on Monday, "We call on the Pakistani authorities to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms and advise them to show loyalty to the constitution to maintain law and order."

At the same time, the US official urged the protesters to express their demands in a peaceful way and avoid violence.

Imran Khan's supporters have been protesting since November 24 demanding the release of Pakistan's former prime minister and founder of PTI. Four Rangers and two policemen were killed when a car hit them on the Srinagar highway when a PTI protest march entered Islamabad on Monday night.

The protest was led by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur. A procession led by him from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Hazara, DI Khan and Balochistan converged and entered Islamabad's Hakla Interchange. PTI founder's wife Bushra Bibi and top leaders of the party also joined the protest.

However, the Pakistani government has taken a strict stand to prevent the protests. Clashes took place at several places on the approach to the Pakistani capital. Police tried to stop the protesters by firing tear gas.

However, the army was deployed in Islamabad soon after several security personnel were killed in a car crash. It is also reported that the army has been ordered to 'shoot-at-sight' (fire on sight) to control the situation.

In this situation, Pakistan Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has warned PTI not to cross the 'red line'. However, Imran supporters are still adamant about the rally in Islamabad. Bushra Bibi has announced to proceed to D-chowk with a protest march.

Earlier, the government and PTI representatives sat for a round of discussion. The government was represented by Amir Muqam, Ayaz Sadiq and Mohsin Naqvi. Asad Qaiser, Shibli Faraj and Barrister Gowhar stood for PTI. However, it was reported that no decision could be reached from the discussion.