Unrest Erupts on GT Road
Fresh unrest broke out in Muridke, near Lahore, as law enforcement confronted a group of Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) supporters marching toward Islamabad. The demonstration, part of the group’s ongoing movement, quickly turned violent when police attempted to block their procession near GT Road, a major national highway corridor.
Witnesses described hours of chaos as both sides clashed. Police fired tear gas shells to disperse the crowd, while some protesters reportedly responded with stones and gunfire. Multiple vehicles, barricades, and roadside structures were damaged during the confrontation.
According to police sources, the protest was dispersed late in the evening after several rounds of confrontation, but the situation remained tense throughout the night. Additional security units were deployed to prevent further escalation.
Police Confirm SHO Martyred in Line of Duty
Law enforcement officials confirmed that a Station House Officer (SHO) lost his life while on duty during the clash. Authorities have not yet released his name publicly, but senior police officials paid tribute to him, calling his death “a sacrifice made in the protection of public order.”
Several other police personnel also sustained injuries, including officers exposed to direct assault and tear gas inhalation. They were shifted to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Officials emphasized that the incident is being treated as a serious attack on state authority and that a full inquiry will determine whether firearms were used by protesters or infiltrators within the crowd.
Conflicting Reports on Protester Deaths
Police sources stated that three TLP supporters were killed in the confrontation. However, the exact number remains disputed, as TLP leadership has claimed a higher death toll and accused security forces of using excessive force.
Authorities maintain that force was used “only in response to violent resistance,” while TLP alleges that the police crackdown was unprovoked. Independent verification of these claims remains limited, with officials citing restricted access to the area due to safety concerns.
Efforts to Restore Order
Following the clashes, traffic along GT Road was heavily disrupted for hours, leaving thousands of commuters stranded. Rescue and medical teams were dispatched to assist the injured. Police have since cleared the route and reopened it for controlled traffic flow.
The Punjab Police command has directed field officers to monitor social media platforms to prevent misinformation and has warned citizens against sharing unverified videos or claims that could inflame tensions.
According to credible sources, several arrests were made following the violence, with detainees facing potential charges related to public disorder and assault on law enforcement.
Background of the Protests
The TLP demonstrations are part of a larger campaign calling for political and religious causes, including strong action in response to global events in Gaza. The group has a history of nationwide protests that often lead to significant traffic disruption and clashes with security forces.
In recent months, the government has attempted to engage in dialogue with TLP representatives to avoid confrontation, but negotiations reportedly broke down earlier this week, leading to renewed mobilization.
National Reaction and Investigation
Political leaders and civil society figures have expressed concern over the loss of life, urging both sides to exercise restraint. Senior police officials have stated that an investigation team has been formed to review the sequence of events, collect witness accounts, and assess whether standard operating procedures (SOPs) were followed during the operation.
Authorities say the inquiry will also determine whether any unidentified groups instigated the violence to exploit the ongoing unrest.
Meanwhile, TLP has announced plans to hold funeral prayers for its deceased supporters and vowed to continue peaceful demonstrations until their demands are acknowledged.
The tragic events in Muridke serve as a reminder of the fragile balance between maintaining law and order and protecting the right to peaceful protest. With both police and demonstrators suffering casualties, calls for accountability and reform in crowd control measures are growing louder.
As the investigation unfolds, Pakistan’s leadership faces increasing pressure to ensure that justice is served and future demonstrations are managed without further bloodshed.
