A violent pre-dawn operation against Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) protesters in Muridke has sparked nationwide unrest, leaving dozens injured, several arrested, and one police officer dead. The situation remains tense as conflicting reports about TLP Chief Saad Rizvi’s whereabouts fuel confusion across Pakistan.
⚔️ Police Launch Early Morning Operation
According to officials, the operation began around 3:30am on Monday when over 1,500 police officers in riot gear, supported by armoured vehicles and water cannons, surrounded the TLP protest camp along GT Road, Muridke.
The crackdown, which lasted nearly six hours, aimed to dismantle the group’s long-standing demonstration site. Authorities say hundreds of protesters were detained, though the exact number remains uncertain.
However, the clashes quickly turned violent. Punjab Police confirmed the death of Inspector Shehzad Nawaz, reportedly shot during the confrontation. Local reports suggest at least four people were killed and more than 50 others injured.
🚨 Confusion Over Saad Rizvi’s Fate
As the situation escalated, rumours flooded social media regarding the status of TLP leader Saad Rizvi. Some posts alleged he had been injured or detained, while others claimed he was missing.
In a statement to Dawn.com, Punjab Inspector General Dr. Usman Anwar dismissed these rumours, confirming that Saad Rizvi is neither arrested nor injured.
Despite this, TLP’s official channels remained silent, issuing no confirmation or denial, adding to public speculation.
🌍 Unrest Spreads Nationwide
The crackdown in Muridke triggered protests across major cities, including Lahore, Karachi, Faisalabad, Burewala, and Bahawalnagar.
In Lahore, hundreds of TLP supporters blocked roads and damaged vehicles, calling the police action a “brutal crackdown.”
In Faisalabad, demonstrators shut down Chenab Chowk for two hours, disrupting traffic and forcing Government College University Faisalabad to postpone examinations.
In Karachi, TLP activists blocked main roads in North Karachi and New Karachi, clashing with police and injuring two officers.
According to DIG Irfan Ali Baloch, police used tear gas to disperse the crowd and arrested five protesters, restoring traffic by evening.
🎙️ TLP Leaders Call for Nationwide Protest
By late Monday night, Mufti Wazeer Ahmad Rizvi, a senior member of the TLP Majlis-e-Shura, released a video message urging supporters to end their protests peacefully and gather in Lahore on October 17 at Data Darbar Shrine for the next phase of demonstrations.
He also instructed members to clear blocked roads and await further directions from the leadership.
🕊️ Failed Negotiations and Escalation
Senior police sources revealed that authorities initially paused the operation following reports of ongoing talks between the government and TLP leaders. However, the negotiations collapsed after TLP refused to compromise.
“The TLP’s demands were completely unreasonable,” said a Punjab police officer involved in the crackdown. “They wanted all detained members released and security forces withdrawn from the route to Islamabad.”
When the protesters began marching toward the capital, police deployed anti-riot forces to halt their advance. The situation turned deadly when armed men among the crowd opened fire, killing Inspector Nawaz.
⚖️ Political Reactions
The operation drew mixed reactions from political and religious leaders.
JUI-F Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman condemned the police action, calling it an act of “state brutality.” He stated that the right to peaceful protest is protected under the constitution and urged the government to resolve conflicts through dialogue, not force.
In contrast, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif defended the government’s stance, calling the protests “an insult to religion.”
He posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“Blocking roads, forming armed groups, and holding citizens hostage in the name of religion is unacceptable. Our society cannot be held hostage by violence and extremism.”
🔍 Current Situation
As of Tuesday morning, tensions remain high across Punjab and Sindh. Police have increased security around major highways and religious centers, fearing further unrest.
Authorities continue to monitor TLP’s mobilization efforts ahead of the October 17 Lahore gathering, which could determine whether the current wave of protests expands or fades.
