TLP did not seek permission for its planned protest in Islamabad, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry said on Thursday, adding that while the government allows peaceful demonstrations, the TLP failed to follow proper procedures and submit any request.
According to Chaudhry, violence erupted in Punjab late Wednesday night after police launched a crackdown on TLP headquarters in an attempt to arrest its chief, Saad Rizvi. The clashes left at least three police constables injured as TLP supporters hurled stones and iron rods at law enforcers. Police responded with tear gas shelling, turning Multan Road into a battleground.
TLP had announced plans for a large anti-Israel demonstration outside the US Embassy in Islamabad on Friday.
Addressing a press conference, Talal Chaudhry condemned the inflammatory and abusive speeches made by the group’s leaders. “When did the TLP seek permission? When did it assure compliance with SOPs?” he questioned.
Chaudhry stressed that the people of Palestine needed peace, not political sloganeering. Referring to the recent Gaza ceasefire, he said Hamas had accepted peace, yet the TLP refused to do so. “If Hamas can accept peace, why can’t those planning protests?” he asked.
He also revealed that chemicals, gas masks, and other supplies were seized from TLP workers, which they allegedly intended to use during their planned protest in the federal capital.
Meanwhile, security in Rawalpindi has been tightened as tensions rise following the raid on TLP’s Lahore headquarters. City Police Officer (CPO) Syed Khalid Hamdani chaired a high-level meeting to review the law and order situation. The CPO warned that no one would be allowed to disrupt public life or take the law into their own hands, stressing that “violent activity under the guise of protests will not be tolerated.”
Police instructed that hostels and hotels along Murree Road be cleared of non-essential individuals, with exemptions for foreigners, patients, and students. Additionally, two TLP workers arrested earlier this week were remanded for 10 days by a Rawalpindi Anti-Terrorism Court for allegedly transporting dangerous materials for violent protests.
Chaudhry reiterated that while the government supports lawful and peaceful demonstrations, TLP’s approach of confrontation and lawlessness will not be accepted.
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