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Mass Protests Shake Pakistan: TLP’s “Labbaik Ya Aqsa” March Turns Violent

October 17, 2025
7C Report
Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan launches nationwide “Labbaik Ya Aqsa Million March” in solidarity with Palestinians; clashes, casualties, and mass arrests follow.

Introduction

The hardline Islamist party Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) launched the “Labbaik Ya Aqsa Million March” on October 9, 2025, mobilizing thousands from Lahore, Faisalabad, and other areas toward Islamabad to protest in solidarity with Gaza. Authorities blocked major routes, sealed roads, and imposed communication restrictions. Clashes between protesters and security forces in Lahore and Muridke resulted in at least five deaths, including a police officer, and mass arrests across Punjab.
The TLP claims its supporters faced excessive force, while the government asserts that the march was unauthorized and that security measures were essential to maintain order.

Background & Context

Over the years, TLP has used large-scale protests and long marches to exert political and religious pressure.
The slogan “Labbaik Ya Aqsa” symbolizes solidarity with Palestine and opposition to aggression against Muslims.
In Pakistan, Gaza-related protests often gain widespread political and public attention, particularly during heightened conflict in the Middle East.
The current movement continues TLP’s pattern of activism aimed at pressuring the government and amplifying public sentiment for Palestine.

Chronology of Recent Events

  • October 9–10, 2025: TLP announced the Million March and began mobilizing in Lahore and Faisalabad.

  • October 10: Authorities sealed key routes toward Islamabad, imposed Section 144 to restrict gatherings, and suspended 3G/4G mobile data in Islamabad and Rawalpindi to curb coordination.

  • October 11–13: Violent clashes erupted in Lahore, Muridke, and nearby zones. A Station House Officer (SHO) was killed in Muridke, along with three TLP members.

  • October 13: Confirmed reports indicated five deaths in Lahore, including one police officer. TLP leader Saad Rizvi was reportedly shot and remains in serious condition.

  • Mass arrests: Police confirmed the detention of over 100 TLP activists in Lahore alone.

Official Positions & Statements

  • Government/Punjab Authorities: Officials declared the march unauthorized and described it as a threat to public order. They defended police actions as necessary to prevent unrest. Deputy Interior Minister Talal Chaudhry criticized TLP’s violent approach.

  • TLP’s stance: The party accused the government of repression, alleging excessive force, targeted arrests, and violence against leadership. They demanded the immediate release of detained activists.

  • Observers and media: Human rights monitors and journalists expressed concern over fatalities and the use of live force, urging independent investigations. No international body has yet intervened.

Humanitarian & Local Impact

The unrest disrupted life across Punjab, with blocked travel routes and closed schools. Internet blackouts in Islamabad and Rawalpindi limited communications.
In Muridke and Lahore, residents reported heavy tear gas, baton charges, and gunfire, leading to panic and restricted emergency response.
Both civilian and police deaths further heightened public tension and fear.

Analysis & Risks

  • Political legitimacy: TLP’s mobilization power shows strong grassroots capacity, but violence risks eroding public support.

  • Security escalation: Injuries to leadership (e.g., Saad Rizvi) and mass arrests could provoke wider unrest.

  • Public polarization: The confrontational narrative may deepen divisions between state and religious groups.

  • International dimension: The protest’s focus on Gaza could attract foreign diplomatic concern, especially if suppression continues.

  • Unverified reports: Several social media claims, including rumors of Saad Rizvi’s death, remain unconfirmed by official or neutral sources.

Timeline (Concise)

  • Oct 9–10, 2025: TLP begins “Labbaik Ya Aqsa Million March.”

  • Oct 10: Government imposes Section 144; data services restricted.

  • Oct 11–13: Violent clashes in Lahore and Muridke; deaths and arrests reported.

  • Oct 13: At least five confirmed fatalities, including one police officer; Saad Rizvi critically injured.

Sources

Information compiled from official statements, Pakistani media outlets, and on-ground reporting regarding the TLP “Labbaik Ya Aqsa” March (October 9–13, 2025).

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