Pakistan: March by Tehrik-e-Labbaik Pakistan towards Islamabad continues as of June 15 /update 1

Event

The Tehrik-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) party is continuing a protest a march from Karachi to Islamabad as of June 15. The action is to denounce the economic policies of the current federal government. A few thousand supporters are moving on foot and via vehicle convoys, and have crossed Kharian city in Punjab Province. The group is anticipated to reach Jhelum in the coming days, before entering Rawalpindi and Islamabad. TLP leaders have held public rallies at various stops in urban centers along the route. It is unclear when the event will conclude.

The march route and rally sites, as well as event times and dates, could change with little-to-no notice due to law enforcement restrictions. Supporters may hold additional rallies from other cities to the gathering points; demonstrations are possible near prominent public squares, press clubs, government buildings, and roadways if police block marches.

Authorities have deployed security personnel in Jhelum, and dug trenches to prevent the march. Police deployment is likely along the march route, especially in and around Islamabad. Officials typically impose Section 144 orders that prohibit unauthorized gatherings of more than four people to control demonstrations. Activists may attempt to defy any security measures to hold sit-ins at popular rally sites in the Red Zone, including the National Assembly, Parliament House, and Supreme Court buildings, as well as roadways like D-Chowk. Large gatherings may cause business disruptions due to the threat of violence, precautionary closures, and/or transport disruptions preventing employee movement.

Traffic disruptions are also likely to, from, and across Islamabad and Rawalpindi until the protest ends. Authorities in Islamabad typically close off most access roads to the Red Zone, which contains key government buildings, as well D-Chowk. Police usually restrict entry into cities, mainly Islamabad. Enhanced security measures are possible and may include the following: military deployment; mass arrests; curtailment of media, transport, and telecommunications services; suspension of fuel supply to protesters' vehicles; and limits on public movement. Authorities may use tear gas and/or water cannons to forcibly disperse crowds if security cordons are breached, leading to clashes. Officials have detained TLP activists ahead of, or during similar marches; any arrests may cause retaliatory protests. Clashes between rival party members, as well as acts of arson and vandalism, cannot be ruled out.

Advice

Plan for transport disruptions along the march route. Allow additional travel time along major highways, especially towards Islamabad. Monitor trusted local sources for updates on rallies and related disruptions, as organizers may not announce time or location details in advance. Heed all official traffic and security advisories. Leave the area immediately if violence breaks out.