Pakistan Suspends Mobile, Internet Services as TLP’s ‘Labbaik Ya Aqsa Million March’ Sparks Clashes and Crackdown

Pakistan Cuts Internet, Restricts Movement in Islamabad and Rawalpindi Amid Tehreek-e-Labbaik Protests

In a sweeping security move, the Pakistani government has suspended mobile and internet services in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, sealing off the capital’s entry and exit routes ahead of the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) rally scheduled for Friday.

The drastic action comes as violent clashes erupted in Lahore between law enforcement personnel and TLP members protesting against Israel, leaving dozens injured.

According to officials, the Ministry of Interior directed the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to cut mobile and internet connectivity in the twin cities from midnight on Friday for an indefinite period. The decision was approved by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, citing heightened security concerns.

Section 144 Imposed Across Punjab

To prevent further unrest, the Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province, banning all forms of public gatherings, rallies, and protests for the next 10 days.

A notification from the provincial home department stated that gatherings of four or more people in public areas are prohibited. Exceptions have been made for prayers, weddings, funerals, offices, and court premises. Additionally, a ban on the display of weapons and use of loudspeakers has been enforced throughout Punjab.

In Rawalpindi, Section 144 will remain in force until October 11, while in Islamabad, security has been intensified with major entry points barricaded and the Red Zone completely sealed. Only authorised personnel can access the area through Margalla Road, officials confirmed.

Lahore Turns Into Flashpoint

Clashes broke out in Lahore on Thursday after police raided the TLP headquarters at Yateem Khana to arrest party chief Saad Hussain Rizvi.

"At least five police constables and over a dozen TLP workers were injured in clashes that continued for several hours," a police officer told the news agency. The TLP, however, claimed that one of its supporters was killed and 20 others were wounded.

Police officials said TLP workers retaliated violently, attacking with stones and iron rods, while Rizvi managed to elude arrest. "So far, Rizvi eluded arrest. A large number of police personnel have been deployed around the TLP headquarters, and tension is prevailing in the area," he said.

"Usually, the religious parties' workers do not attack the Rangers personnel," the officer added.

TLP Accuses Government of “Oppression”

Condemning the crackdown, a TLP spokesperson said, "To stop the peaceful ' Labbaik Ya Aqsa Million March ', the Punjab government of (chief minister) Maryam Nawaz has resorted to disgraceful tactics. The oppression against unarmed workers and officials of TLP must be stopped immediately."

The spokesperson further accused authorities of targeting those expressing solidarity with Palestinians. “The Jews are oppressing Muslims in Gaza, and here their supporters are oppressing Muslims here,” the spokesperson said.

He alleged that the arrest of the party’s deputy chief, Pir Syed Zaheer-ul-Hassan Shah, marked a new level of repression. “The voice of truth cannot be silenced through force. Every act of oppression will fail,” he added, warning the government of potential backlash if the crackdown continues.

Federal Capital on High Alert

Law enforcement agencies remain on high alert as Islamabad braces for possible unrest. Roads leading to sensitive installations and diplomatic zones have been sealed, while protesters are being urged to stay away from restricted areas.

With the TLP vowing to continue its anti-Israel protest, the situation remains tense, and the government’s communications blackout underscores fears of escalating confrontation in the days ahead.