Authorities suspended mobile internet services in Islamabad and Rawalpindi on Friday as Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) advanced toward the federal capital for its planned march.
According to an official notification, the Ministry of Interior and Narcotics Control approved the suspension of 3G and 4G services in both cities from 12 a.m. until further notice. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) was directed to coordinate with Islamabad and Rawalpindi administrations for implementation.
The move comes as the government intensified security measures to prevent TLP’s rally from entering the capital.
Speaking at a press conference, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry said the government aims to stop the march peacefully, emphasizing that the state “will not be blackmailed by mobs.”
He questioned the motive behind the protest, pointing out that Palestinians are celebrating the peace deal in Gaza. “If the people most affected by the conflict are celebrating peace, what is the need for this protest?” Chaudhry asked.
He added that the government had taken preemptive security measures and would not allow any political group to exploit religious or sensitive issues for personal gain. The minister also accused TLP of involvement in past attacks on public property.
To control movement, containers were placed across key entry points in both Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Chaudhry said the barriers were installed to “protect citizens from miscreants.”
Meanwhile, the Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province, banning public gatherings, processions, and the display of weapons. The Home Department stated that these restrictions aim to maintain law and order during the tense situation.
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