Pakistan Faces Another Turmoil: Religious Parties To Hold Protests Over Muridke Killings| Exclusive

Last Updated:October 17, 2025, 10:38 IST

The leaders have vowed to avenge the killings in Muridke, where several TLP supporters were reportedly shot dead during clashes with police and paramilitary forces.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif | File Image

Pakistan is bracing for a new wave of unrest as major religious parties, led by the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), have issued an ultimatum to the federal and Punjab governments, demanding justice for what they call the “Muridke massacre." The alliance, operating under the banner of Ahl-e-Sunnah Pakistan, has threatened severe consequences if their demands are not met, warning of mass protests and sit-ins across the country.

According to top sources, the alliance’s initial demands include immediate negotiations with the government, the release of all detained workers, and the withdrawal of cases filed against party members. The leaders have vowed to avenge the killings in Muridke, where several TLP supporters were reportedly shot dead earlier this week during clashes with police and paramilitary forces.

Friday has been declared a “Black Day" by the Barelvi sect’s coalition, which includes several like-minded religious groups. After the Jumma Namaz (Friday prayers), the TLP and its affiliates have called for nationwide demonstrations. The alliance plans to announce its future strategy later in the day, with a follow-up meeting scheduled for October 22 in Faisalabad to finalise an action plan.

In a significant political development, newly appointed Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Suhail Khan has openly expressed support for TLP’s movement. The province’s Chief Minister has also directed party workers to hold solidarity rallies and protests against both the Punjab and federal governments.

Former Prime Minister Imran Khan has reportedly instructed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) officials and supporters to back TLP’s demonstrations, escalating pressure on the embattled government.

Amid fears of violence and public disorder, the Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province until Saturday, October 18. The order bans all forms of gatherings, rallies, sit-ins, and processions. A statement from the Punjab Home Department also prohibits the display of weapons, use of loudspeakers, and circulation of hate or sectarian content, citing “concerns related to terrorism and public order."

With religious parties mobilising and political alliances shifting, Pakistan faces a volatile weekend marked by high tensions, street protests, and deepening divisions between the state and powerful religious groups.

Manoj Gupta

Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

News world Pakistan Faces Another Turmoil: Religious Parties To Hold Protests Over Muridke Killings| Exclusive

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