Violent protests rock Pakistan as forces crack down on Islamist group: All about TLP and its hardliner chief Saad Rizvi

Saad Rizvi, the second Ameer (chief) of TLP, succeeded his father, Khadim Hussain Rizvi, in 2020.

Pakistan remains on edge as violent clashes between security forces and supporters of the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) spread across Punjab, prompting a massive deployment of police and paramilitary forces. Large contingents of Pakistan Rangers and police surrounded the group’s main protest camp in Muridke on Sunday amid reports of a looming crackdown.

By Monday, police said TLP protesters who had camped in Muridke were dispersed after fierce clashes, reported Dawn. A police station house officer (SHO) was killed and three TLP members died in the confrontation, according to Punjab Police spokesperson Mubashir Hussain.

Authorities swiftly closed roads and motorways around Lahore and Islamabad, which had only just reopened, as panic spread among residents. Some schools in Islamabad also shut early amid fears of further violence.

Unconfirmed reports circulating on social media claim that TLP chief Saad Rizvi had been shot dead by Pakistan’s security forces. There has been no official confirmation from the government or the military so far.

A Punjab police source cited by Dawn said that the decision to reinforce the security presence came after a high-level meeting chaired by Inspector General Dr Usman Anwar, who ordered “more stringent measures” following reports of vandalism, attacks on law enforcement and property damage.

Several policemen were reported missing after violent confrontations in Lahore’s Shahdara area. Officials said TLP supporters snatched police vehicles and motorbikes at gunpoint during the clashes.

Meanwhile, mobile data services were partially restored in Rawalpindi and Islamabad as negotiations with TLP leaders reportedly began in Lahore. Around 170 party workers and office bearers were detained under the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) across three districts in the Sahiwal division.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi held an emergency meeting in Islamabad to assess the security situation. The Prime Minister’s Office said Naqvi briefed Sharif on ongoing operations and steps to maintain law and order. The premier directed that “coordinated and effective actions must continue to ensure the protection of citizens’ lives and property.”

Earlier, Saad Rizvi had urged his supporters to remain calm and wait for his next instructions, saying he had not yet authorised the march to Islamabad. He condemned police action and alleged that officers had used “lethal weapons” against TLP workers.

Who is Saad Rizvi?

Saad Rizvi, the second Ameer (chief) of TLP, succeeded his father, Khadim Hussain Rizvi, in 2020. Known for his fiery sermons and hardline rhetoric, Rizvi has positioned himself as a prominent figure in Pakistan’s radical Islamist politics.

He has repeatedly called for Pakistan to adopt a tougher stance against Israel and Western nations, often leading mass rallies in support of Palestine. Under his leadership, the TLP has maintained its rigid defence of Pakistan’s blasphemy laws and demanded severe punishment for those accused of defamation of the Prophet.

Recently, Rizvi accused the Punjab police of killing 11 TLP members in Lahore and detaining his family during raids. His alleged death, if confirmed, could mark a major turning point in Pakistan’s volatile political landscape.

What is Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP)?

Founded in 2015 by cleric Khadim Hussain Rizvi, TLP is a far-right religious group rooted in the Barelvi school of Sunni Islam. The group gained prominence after its campaign to defend Mumtaz Qadri, the police guard who assassinated Punjab Governor Salman Taseer for criticising Pakistan’s blasphemy laws.

TLP was later designated a terrorist organisation following a series of violent protests and attacks on security forces. Despite periodic bans, the group has continued to contest elections and wield influence in Pakistan’s street politics, often using religion as a rallying cry to pressure governments.