The Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP)’s ongoing protests have disrupted the public life for a second day on Saturday as clashes between police and supporters of a religio-political party continued amid roads blocks and mobile internet suspension.
Earlier on Friday, the TLP called on its supporters to protest outside the US embassy in Islamabad in solidarity with Palestinians, leading authorities to raid its Lahore headquarters.
Subsequently, clashes erupted in Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi and other cities as police deployed shipping containers and tear gas to stop protesters from marching on Islamabad. Meanwhile, protestors responded by throwing stones at police.
Known for its street mobilization and agitation politics, TLP frequently raises blasphemy and religious issues, staging mass sit-ins and marches that have often paralyzed Islamabad and major highways since 2017.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi warned firmly, “No group will be allowed to march on Islamabad or any other city under any circumstances,” emphasizing the importance of law and order.
Due to the unrest, educational institutions remain closed, Metro bus services in the twin cities are suspended, and mobile internet access has been restricted, causing difficulties for residents.
