Violent unrest gripped parts of Punjab on Monday after a march organised by the far-right Islamist group Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) turned into deadly confrontations with security forces. One police officer was confirmed dead, and several others, including TLP chief Saad Hussain Rizvi, were seriously injured as clashes broke out during the group’s anti-Israel, pro-Palestinian rally.

Tensions escalated rapidly in Lahore and surrounding towns as TLP supporters attempted to breach security barriers while marching toward Islamabad. The protest, dubbed the “Gaza March,” began Friday and was aimed at reaching the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad to express solidarity with Palestinians. Security forces responded with force, including baton charges and tear gas, while protesters reportedly retaliated with gunfire.

“The demonstrators opened fire on authorities, killing the officer and wounding others,” Punjab Police Chief Usman Anwar said. He did not confirm protester casualties, but TLP claimed multiple fatalities and injuries among its ranks.

Saad Rizvi Shot, Hospitalised Amid Gunfire

According to a statement by TLP, its leader Saad Rizvi sustained multiple bullet wounds after security personnel opened fire. He is in critical condition and receiving medical treatment. A video shared by the party shortly before he was shot shows Rizvi calling for calm while urging police to cease fire.

“I am ready to negotiate,” Rizvi said in the video, with audible gunfire in the background.

Clashes were particularly severe in Muridke, near Lahore, where TLP had set up camp. Police and paramilitary forces encircled the protest site and launched a crackdown overnight to prevent the group from advancing toward the capital. In Shahdara, another suburb of Lahore, the situation spiraled into chaos as protesters reportedly damaged property, torched vehicles, and attacked police stations. Several officers were reported missing.

Death Toll and Injury Claims Rise

While police have confirmed only the death of one officer, TLP alleges that over 250 of its members have been killed in the violence and more than 1,500 injured some critically. Videos circulating online show thick black smoke, injured protesters, and burning trucks. Reports also suggest that more than 100 demonstrators were detained in operations over the weekend.

Law enforcement authorities have also been carrying out raids in various districts including Sahiwal, Okara, and Pakpattan, detaining dozens under the Maintenance of Public Order law. Those arrested were transferred to central jails across the province.

Schools Shut, Roads Blocked Amid Escalating Violence

The unrest prompted closures of schools in Islamabad and led to widespread traffic disruptions as police placed shipping containers and barricades along major routes. Some roads that had reopened briefly on Sunday were closed again by Monday amid fresh violence. The interior ministry has deployed over 1,200 paramilitary personnel across Punjab to curb the unrest.

Government Criticised for Heavy-Handed Response

The government’s handling of the protests has sparked mixed reactions on social media. While many condemned the TLP for triggering unrest even after reports of a Gaza ceasefire, others accused authorities of using disproportionate force and blocking roads before any violence occurred.

“I failed to understand why TLP opted for violence instead of celebrating peace in Gaza,” said Deputy Interior Minister Talal Chaudhry.

The TLP, which rose to prominence in Pakistan’s 2018 elections through a hardline religious agenda, has been at the center of several violent protests in recent years often over issues such as blasphemy laws or Quran desecration. Although it was briefly banned in 2021 following riots, the ban was later lifted.

PM Reviews Security Situation as TLP Vows to Continue

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a high-level security meeting with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi as the situation worsened. The TLP, meanwhile, has vowed to press ahead with its demands, stating it will not retreat from its position on Palestine or recognise Israel.

Rizvi, before being hospitalised, also condemned what he called the use of “lethal weapons” on unarmed protesters. He urged his followers to stay calm while he consulted party leadership on further steps.