The Pakistan government has suspended mobile and internet services in Islamabad and Rawalpindi ahead of the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan’s (TLP) planned ‘Labbaik Ya Aqsa Million March’ on Friday. Authorities have also sealed all entry and exit routes to the capital.
The move follows violent clashes between police and TLP members in Lahore, which left dozens injured during anti-Israel demonstrations on Thursday.
Tensions Rise Across Punjab
According to police, the violence erupted after officers attempted to arrest TLP chief Saad Hussain Rizvi from the party’s headquarters in Lahore. The clashes intensified overnight, with officers using barricades and shipping containers to block major roads.
“At least five police constables and over a dozen TLP workers were injured in the clashes,” said a senior police officer.
The TLP, however, claimed that one of its workers was killed and 20 others injured.
Authorities say the situation remains tense in Lahore, where additional police and paramilitary Rangers have been deployed to prevent further violence.
Section 144 Imposed
The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province for 10 days, banning all forms of protests, rallies, and public gatherings.
A government notification stated that gatherings of four or more people in public areas are prohibited. However, the order excludes religious events, weddings, funerals, and official or court activities.
The notification also bans display of weapons and use of loudspeakers throughout Punjab.
High Alert in Islamabad and Rawalpindi
In Rawalpindi, Section 144 is already in place until October 11, while Islamabad’s Red Zone has been completely sealed. Only authorized personnel are being allowed entry through Margalla Road.
Law enforcement agencies remain on high alert as the federal capital braces for the TLP’s mass protest.
Government Response and TLP’s Reaction
A TLP spokesperson accused the government of “oppression against unarmed workers” and claimed that the authorities were using force to suppress peaceful protests.
“To stop the ‘Labbaik Ya Aqsa Million March,’ the Punjab government has resorted to disgraceful tactics. The oppression against our workers must stop immediately,” the spokesperson said.
He further alleged that the arrest of TLP deputy chief Pir Syed Zaheer-ul-Hassan Shah was part of a wider crackdown on pro-Palestine voices.
“Showing solidarity with Palestine has become a crime in Pakistan. The voice of truth cannot be silenced through force,” he added.
The Ministry of Interior had directed the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to cut services from midnight on Friday “for an indefinite period,” citing security concerns.
