ISLAMABAD: Though the government has yet to issue clear instructions on how to deal with Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) protest, the capital administration and police are working on a plan to handle the situation in line with the standard operating procedure (SOP), sources told Dawn.

TLP launched the march towards Islamabad on Wednesday and will stay here until either the Netherlands ban a blasphemous cartoons competition or the government immediately ends diplomatic ties with the country.

An officer of the capital administration said when they approached the interior ministry for directives it replied to follow the SOP in this regard.

The administration then sought two paramilitary troops of 10 to 12 platoons each from Rangers and the Frontier Constabulary, the officer said.

Contingents of police from Punjab, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Kashmir and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa would also be sought if required, he said.

At the moment, leaves of the capital police have been cancelled and anti-riot units, anti-terrorism squad, capital police reserves and counter-terrorism force have been put on a standby, he stated, adding that Special Branch will provide information about the TLP, including its strength and plans.

The TLP workers are scheduled to spend tonight in Gujrat and are expected to reach Islamabad capital Thursday night or Friday morning.

Published in Dawn, August 30th, 2018

Opinion

Editorial

‘Source of terror’
Updated 29 Mar, 2024

‘Source of terror’

It is clear that going after militant groups inside Afghanistan unilaterally presents its own set of difficulties.
Chipping in
29 Mar, 2024

Chipping in

FEDERAL infrastructure development schemes are located in the provinces. Most such projects — for instance,...
Toxic emitters
29 Mar, 2024

Toxic emitters

IT is concerning to note that dozens of industries have been violating environmental laws in and around Islamabad....
Judiciary’s SOS
Updated 28 Mar, 2024

Judiciary’s SOS

The ball is now in CJP Isa’s court, and he will feel pressure to take action.
Data protection
28 Mar, 2024

Data protection

WHAT do we want? Data protection laws. When do we want them? Immediately. Without delay, if we are to prevent ...
Selling humans
28 Mar, 2024

Selling humans

HUMAN traders feed off economic distress; they peddle promises of a better life to the impoverished who, mired in...