Lahore — The political and religious party Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) has launched its much‑anticipated march from Jamia Masjid Rehmat-ul-Alameen in Lahore, under the leadership of its emir, Saad Hussain Rizvi. The development follows Rizvi’s Friday sermon in which he reaffirmed his party’s plan to stage a long march, ultimately aimed at reaching the US Embassy.
The Beginning of the Procession
On Friday afternoon, TLP workers and leaders gathered at their headquarters mosque before setting out in the form of a large procession. Saad Rizvi, flanked by members of the party’s central Shura, led the rally on foot. Eyewitnesses described the atmosphere as charged but organized, with participants chanting slogans and carrying banners.
BBC Urdu correspondent Umar Daraz reported that the rally attracted a significant number of supporters. According to his account, police contingents initially attempted to block the procession at various points in Lahore. However, when officers tried to disperse the crowd, TLP workers pushed through the barricades, forcing the police to retreat.
The Million March Call
The party has branded this campaign as the “Labbaik Ya Aqsa Million March”, scheduled to culminate in Islamabad on October 10. TLP leaders say the march is intended to express solidarity with Palestine and to highlight what they describe as the government’s silence on international issues concerning Jerusalem.
In a statement released by the party’s spokesperson, TLP claimed that the march had already gained momentum across Lahore, with convoys of supporters joining from different neighborhoods. The spokesperson alleged that despite the peaceful nature of the protest, participants were being subjected to “heavy shelling and street firing.”
The statement further accused authorities of attempting to provoke violence by placing containers filled with soil at key entry and exit points in Lahore, effectively sealing off parts of the city.
Saad Rizvi’s Address
During his sermon earlier in the day, Saad Rizvi declared that he would personally lead the march, followed by the party’s leadership council and then the rank‑and‑file workers. He told the gathering:
“Arrest, bullets, and shells are not a problem. Martyrdom is our destiny.”
Rizvi emphasized that the march was not an act of aggression but a continuation of TLP’s mission to defend the honor of the Prophet and to stand for Jerusalem. He contrasted the sanctity of embassies with the significance of Jerusalem for Muslims, stating that the holy city was “dearer than wealth, blood, and even children.”
Criticism of Government Policy
The TLP chief also criticized the government’s foreign policy, questioning its stance on Palestine. Referring to Pakistan’s diplomatic relations, he asked why voices in favor of Palestine were being restricted. He linked his remarks to the death anniversary of Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan, Pakistan’s nuclear scientist, suggesting that the country should have responded to Israel with strength as a tribute to him.
Rizvi added that the Muslim world still had young people willing to sacrifice for their faith. “We know our fate,” he said, “but if those who fired the bullets knew theirs, they would not have left their homes.”
Temporary Halt and Growing Numbers
According to BBC Urdu, after leaving Masjid Rehmat-ul-Alameen, the rally advanced a short distance before making a temporary stop. During this pause, more groups of supporters joined, swelling the crowd further. Observers noted that the procession continued to attract participants from adjoining areas, turning it into a city‑wide movement.
Security and Public Disruption
Authorities in Lahore have taken extensive security measures, including road closures and diversions. Containers have been placed at major intersections, creating significant traffic disruptions. Businesses in some areas also reported early closures due to uncertainty about the situation.
Despite these measures, TLP insists that its march will remain peaceful. The party’s spokesperson reiterated that any violence would be the result of government actions rather than the intentions of the protesters.
Looking Ahead
The march is expected to continue toward Islamabad, where TLP has called for a major gathering on October 10. Political analysts note that such demonstrations have historically placed pressure on governments, both by disrupting daily life and by drawing international attention.
For now, the situation in Lahore remains tense but under observation. With thousands already on the streets and more expected to join, the coming days will test both the government’s resolve and the party’s ability to maintain discipline among its supporters.