Protesters blocked major roads, burned tires, and disrupted traffic, causing widespread chaos and raising concerns over public safety. Authorities have warned that mobile services may be suspended in several locations to manage the situation, while educational institutions, including schools and universities, have been closed indefinitely due to security risks.
Saad Rizvi, the 31-year-old son of TLP’s late founder Khadim Hussain Rizvi, took leadership of the party in 2020. He has been instrumental in mobilising supporters and using social media to amplify the party’s agenda, particularly its focus on Pakistan’s blasphemy laws under Section 295-C of the Penal Code.
The party was banned in 2021, and Saad himself was detained for seven months in 2021 following violent protests.
The unrest escalated dramatically in Muridke during the TLP long march, where at least four people—including police officers and civilians—were killed, and 56 others injured. Among the dead was Factory Area Station House Officer (SHO) Shehzad Nawaz, who was martyred after being shot by protesters.
The unrest escalated dramatically in Muridke during the TLP long march, where at least four people—including police officers and civilians—were killed, and 56 others injured. Among the dead was Factory Area Station House Officer (SHO) Shehzad Nawaz, who was martyred after being shot by protesters.
Law enforcement and Rangers launched an operation to disperse the crowds after protesters hurled stones, spiked sticks, and petrol bombs, and opened indiscriminate fire. Security forces conducted a limited counter-operation to regain control of the Grand Trunk (GT) Road.
At least 48 police and Rangers personnel sustained injuries, 17 from gunfire, while three TLP supporters and one passerby were killed. Eight additional civilians were also wounded. During the clashes, around 40 government and private vehicles were set ablaze. Authorities detained several individuals involved in the violence, while injured persons were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
