TLP Protest in Islamabad and Rawalpindi Face Roadblocks
Islamabad and Rawalpindi came to a partial standstill on Friday as authorities moved swiftly to block roads and suspend mobile internet services following Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan’s (TLP) announcement of a march toward the federal capital. The sudden restrictions left residents struggling with disrupted commutes, limited connectivity, and heavy security deployments across the twin cities.
Containers have been placed at key entry points into Islamabad, effectively sealing routes leading from Rawalpindi and surrounding areas. Alongside the movement restrictions, the Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control approved a suspension of 3G and 4G mobile data services in both cities “until further orders.” The notification stated that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) had been directed to coordinate with the Islamabad and Rawalpindi administrations to enforce the directive.
The Islamabad High Court Bar Association (IHCBA) expressed concern over the citywide blockade, saying that lawyers were unable to reach courts due to closed routes. The body urged the judiciary not to issue adverse rulings in cases where legal representatives could not appear because of the ongoing situation.
Across Punjab, the provincial government imposed Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) for 14 days, banning public gatherings, sit-ins, and the display of weapons. The Punjab Home Department cited intelligence reports warning of possible coordinated attacks on public events and government institutions. The order also prohibited the use of loudspeakers, except for religious sermons and calls to prayer.
In Lahore, security has been intensified, with road closures in multiple areas adding to the city’s traffic congestion and public frustration.
Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry criticized the TLP for “attempting to create unrest and chaos” under the pretext of organizing a Gaza solidarity march. Speaking at a press conference, he said the government supports peaceful protests that follow legal procedures, but accused the TLP of operating outside established protocols.
“Does this look like a peaceful protest or an attempt to incite violence?” Chaudhry asked, revealing that law enforcement agencies had arrested individuals linked to TLP carrying batons, chemicals, tear gas shells, and glass bottles. He claimed that those detained were confirmed members of the organization.
Chaudhry further alleged that the group’s actions were intended to divert national attention from pressing security issues, recalling that “even during Indian aggression,” TLP had announced a similar Gaza march. “Pakistan has always stood by the people of Palestine. But such unlawful protests only serve to destabilize our own nation,” he added.
The federal and provincial authorities remain on high alert as law enforcement agencies continue to monitor the situation closely. The suspension of internet services and the imposition of Section 144 underscore growing government concern over the potential for unrest amid ongoing political and religious tensions.
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