Islamabad, Rawalpindi Residents Face Disruptions Amid TLP March

The populace of Islamabad and Rawalpindi experienced difficulties in commuting and communication as authorities deployed barriers and temporarily disabled mobile data services. This action follows the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan’s (TLP) declaration to proceed with a march towards Islamabad on Friday.

With obstacles positioned at key entryways into Islamabad, inhabitants also encountered interruptions in cellular internet connectivity.

A notification from the interior ministry on Thursday stated, “The Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control has sanctioned the suspension of 3G/4G services in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi […] until further instructions are given.”

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) was directed to implement “necessary measures” in collaboration with the Islamabad commissioner, IGP office, and the commissioner and RPO offices in Rawalpindi.

The Islamabad High Court Bar Association (IHCBA) issued a statement noting that the closure of all city entry points has impeded lawyers’ ability to reach the courts. Consequently, the association has appealed for leniency regarding any adverse rulings in cases due to the absence of legal representatives.

Beyond the federal capital, Section 144 of the CrPC has been enforced across Punjab, which prohibits the display of weapons and all forms of public assembly.

According to a notification by the Punjab Home Department, gatherings, processions, and sit-ins are prohibited under Section 144 to ensure the preservation of law and order within the province.

The order specifies that the ban will initially be in effect for 14 days, with the possibility of extension contingent upon the prevailing security circumstances.

The directive was issued following credible intelligence reports indicating a heightened risk of coordinated assaults aimed at public gatherings, governmental buildings, and law enforcement personnel.

The use of loudspeakers, except for calls to prayer and sermons, is also forbidden under these restrictions.

Furthermore, security measures have been intensified in Lahore, with road closures adding to the challenges faced by residents in various areas.

Meanwhile, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry has criticized the TLP for attempting to stage a “so-called Gaza March,” asserting that its purpose is not to demonstrate solidarity with Palestinians but rather to instigate disturbance and disarray within the nation.

During a press briefing earlier, Chaudhry stated that the government has consistently permitted peaceful demonstrations conducted in accordance with established regulations and standard operating procedures (SOPs). However, the TLP neither requested authorization nor provided assurances of adherence to legal protocols.

The minister disclosed that numerous individuals were apprehended in Punjab and Islamabad while carrying implements such as batons, chemicals, glass bottles, and various weapons, including tear gas canisters and protective masks, thereby raising significant doubts about the group’s intentions.

“Does this resemble a peaceful demonstration or an attempt to provoke violence?” Chaudhry questioned, adding that those taken into custody were confirmed to be TLP functionaries.

The minister suggested that the TLP’s endeavors appear designed to deflect attention from matters of national security, recalling that the group announced an analogous Gaza march “even during Indian aggression.”

He underscored that Pakistan has remained among the most outspoken nations in its support for Palestine.