Riots Erupt in Lahore: Punjab Police Kills 11 TLP Workers, Saad Rizvi Condemns Brutality

Riots in Lahore escalate as Punjab Police kills 11 TLP workers, injures dozens, and arrests leaders amid protests over Gaza Deal.

At least 11 workers of the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) were killed in Lahore during violent clashes with Punjab police, TLP chief Saad Rizvi alleged on Friday. The party leader accused authorities of targeting his followers without justification, raising concerns over excessive use of force. Rizvi further claimed that more than two dozen party workers suffered injuries from shelling during confrontations and that multiple injured individuals were denied necessary medical aid.

TLP Chief Questions Police Action

Addressing the violent crackdown, Saad Rizvi publicly questioned the police, asking, “Kis Ke Kehne Pr Goli Chala Rhe Ho?” (On whose orders are you firing at us?). His statement highlights growing tensions between law enforcement and TLP supporters, reflecting broader unrest across the region. The chief’s remarks suggest that the party views these actions as politically motivated rather than standard law enforcement measures.

Read more: Mobile Internet Suspended In Pakistan’s Islamabad and Rawalpindi Amid TLP March and Kabul Air Raids

Transport and Communication Disruptions Across Punjab

The ongoing riots have severely disrupted major transport and communication channels in Lahore and surrounding areas. The Lahore-Islamabad-Peshawar motorway remains closed, affecting intercity travel and trade. Authorities have also suspended internet services in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Islamabad, and other major cities across Punjab, effectively imposing a digital blackout. Both Islamabad and Rawalpindi are reported to be under near-total lockdown, restricting movement and public gatherings.

Punjab Police Raids TLP Leader’s Home

In a significant escalation, Punjab police reportedly raided the house of Saad Rizvi, detaining his wife, mother, and children. This move has further intensified public anger and drawn criticism from human rights advocates. The raid follows the party’s decision to mobilize protests in response to political developments, signaling a dangerous escalation in state-party confrontations.

read more: ‘Playing With Fire’: SIR Stir Erupts In Bengal As Mamata Targets CEO, BJP Demands Action

Protests Over Gaza Deal

The clashes are linked to TLP’s call for a march to Islamabad against the proposed Gaza Deal, which the party claims is backed by Western powers, particularly the United States. TLP has urged followers to gather at the US Embassy in Islamabad after Friday prayers on October 10, describing the demonstration as a “decisive protest against the betrayal of Gaza.” This call has drawn thousands of supporters from Punjab and other provinces, raising the stakes for authorities trying to maintain order.

Detentions of Senior TLP Leaders

The situation intensified following the arrest of senior TLP leader Naeem Chatha in Islamabad. In addition, several other prominent leaders and local figures were detained in Lahore. These arrests have fueled anger among TLP supporters, prompting the party to announce a major sit-in in Islamabad. The planned demonstration is expected to attract participants from across Punjab and other provinces, signaling a potential for further clashes.

Outlook and Public Response

With ongoing unrest, authorities are facing increasing pressure to manage both public safety and political tensions. The deaths, injuries, and detentions have already sparked widespread condemnation and intensified scrutiny on Punjab police actions. Analysts suggest that the coming days will be critical in determining whether the protests escalate further or subside following negotiations between the government and TLP leaders.

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