Lahore, Pakistan — Tensions flared in Lahore on Friday as the Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) launched its so-called “Gaza March” toward Islamabad, triggering violent clashes with police across multiple parts of the city.
According to Dawn, thousands of supporters gathered at the group’s headquarters on Multan Road after Friday prayers, responding to a call from TLP chief Saad Rizvi. The crowd, waving religious flags and chanting slogans, soon began advancing toward the capital — many carrying sticks, rods, and bricks.
Police Use Tear Gas as Protesters Break Barricades
Police set up heavy barricades at major intersections, including Yateem Khana Chowk, Chauburji, Azadi Chowk, and Shahdara, in a bid to block the rally. However, the demonstrators broke through the barriers and continued marching.
Law enforcement resorted to tear gas and warning shots, but videos circulating on social media showed protesters occupying sections of the Orange Line Metro track and throwing stones at police. Several officers were reportedly injured in the clashes.
Eyewitnesses said the chaos intensified near Azadi Chowk, where protesters damaged police vehicles and allegedly commandeered cranes belonging to the Lahore Waste Management Company and Punjab Police to aid their movement.
Dozens Injured, 110 TLP Activists Arrested
Lahore police confirmed that dozens of officers were injured during the violence, while the TLP claimed several of its members had also been hurt — and alleged that some were killed in police firing. However, these claims could not be independently verified.
An anti-terrorism court later remanded 110 TLP activists to police custody for 12 days, following their arrest for allegedly attacking police officers and damaging public property.
The FIR, lodged by the Nawankot Police, accuses the TLP of opening fire and resorting to violence against law enforcement during the march.
Government Warns Against ‘Violence and Blackmail’
Reacting to the unrest, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry accused the TLP of exploiting sensitive issues for political gain.
“Peaceful protest within a democratic framework is a constitutional right,” Chaudhry said in Islamabad.
“But the government will not tolerate violence or blackmail in the name of religion or politics.”
Authorities across Punjab province have maintained heavy security along all routes leading to Islamabad, fearing further escalation as the weekend progresses.
Background: TLP’s Long History of Street Protests
Founded in 2015, Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan is a hardline Islamist party known for its mass mobilization and street protests that often bring major cities to a standstill. The group has clashed repeatedly with Pakistani authorities over religious and political disputes, making it one of the most controversial political movements in the country.
Summary: Key Highlights
- Violent clashes erupted in Lahore as TLP’s Gaza March moved toward Islamabad.
- Police used tear gas, and dozens of officers were injured in the confrontation.
- 110 activists were arrested and remanded by an anti-terrorism court.
- TLP claims fatalities, though not independently verified.
- Government warns against violence, calls for peaceful political engagement.
Conclusion
As the night fell over Lahore, tension remained high and uncertainty loomed across Punjab. With roads blocked and internet services disrupted, Pakistan once again found itself at a crossroads between religious activism and state authority, as the TLP vowed to continue its march toward the capital.