Web Desk; Law enforcement agencies have completed preparations for a major operation in Muridke amid the ongoing protest march by Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP).
Heavy contingents of police have been deployed around the area, with additional forces arriving from Lahore and Islamabad, as negotiations between the government and TLP remain stalled.
Authorities have tightened security across Punjab, with several key routes reportedly blocked again. According to official sources, if the ongoing talks between the government and TLP fail, a large-scale operation could be launched to disperse the protesters and restore order.
Earlier, the TLP leadership claimed that the government had requested the party to pause its march for 24 hours to allow time for negotiations.
“We were asked last night to halt the march for talks, and we have paused for a full day. But the government has not engaged in any negotiations so far,” said the head of the TLP’s crane party during a press conference.
In a statement from the main container, TLP leader Allama Farooq ul Hassan announced that security forces had begun encircling the protest march, raising fears of imminent action.
The Punjab government and state institutions, however, have reiterated that the situation is being handled calmly and responsibly, urging TLP to act with wisdom, especially at a time when the world is celebrating the ceasefire in Palestine.
Meanwhile, the Sindh government has imposed Section 144 across the province for one month in anticipation of possible unrest. The notification, signed by Sindh Home Secretary Muhammad Iqbal Memon, bans gatherings of more than five people, public rallies, and sit-ins across the province, including Karachi.
The ban, effective from October 12, aims to maintain law and order. Police have been instructed to take action under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code against anyone violating the restrictions.
Negotiations between the government and TLP are expected to continue, but the tense situation in Muridke has raised concerns of a potential large-scale confrontation if a breakthrough is not achieved soon.
