Following the meeting, the first direct contact between the two groups since they together started the march on August 14, Qadri set a 24-hour deadline for the Premier to step down.
Putting up a brave front, Sharif was dismissive of the protest, describing it as a "tiny storm" that will end soon.
"This is just a tiny storm, a tumult, which would be ended in a few days," Sharif said.
Indicating that certain forces were trying to target him, the Pakistani premier asserted that "conspiracy" against democracy will not be tolerated.
A few thousands cannot undo the mandate of millions of people, he said.
Qadri has set a number of deadlines since camping outside the Parliament since August 14.
After their meeting, Qureshi reiterated his party's request to postpone further action, which the protesters did not agree to. At this, Qadri came out of his container and asked his followers to give their assent to the PTI proposal.
The developments came after direct talks between the government and protesters failed to break the deadlock yesterday.
The army has been active behind the scenes to broker a deal after Qadri and Khan met army chief General Raheel Sharif on Thursday night, sources said.
The Sharif-led government has announced that it will accept all electoral reform-related demands but has rejected the call for the Prime Minister's resignation.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
