A major rally planned by Hafiz Saeed, the leader of the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), in Lahore has been indefinitely postponed. Originally slated for November 2 at the prominent Minar-e-Pakistan, the event was anticipated as a significant display of the organization’s influence. However, reliable sources within Pakistan have confirmed the deferral, with no new date provided.
A video circulating on social media features an LeT member announcing the postponement, attributing the decision to Saeed himself. This announcement has caused considerable surprise and disquiet among supporters who had been eagerly awaiting Saeed’s public appearance after a prolonged absence.
Intelligence assessments suggest that Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) may have advised the LeT command to call off the rally. This alleged intervention is reportedly a response to escalating threats from the Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which has ramped up its activities recently. The Pakistani security apparatus is reportedly on high alert due to heightened tensions between various militant factions operating within the country.
The rally was also intended to honor militants who perished during a recent military operation referred to as ‘Operation Sindoor.’ Visuals from the planned rally venue had displayed posters of LeT operatives hailed as ‘martyrs,’ reportedly linked to the group’s headquarters in Muridke, Punjab. The abrupt cancellation has left many Lashkar supporters feeling disheartened and uncertain about the group’s future plans.
Internal sources indicate that the postponement might reflect underlying disagreements between militant leadership and Pakistan’s intelligence agencies. LeT sympathizers are now awaiting further directives regarding a potential rescheduling. This development occurs as Pakistan faces mounting domestic and international pressure to combat terrorism and its funding. The response of Hafiz Saeed’s LeT to this setback could significantly shape the future trajectory of this notorious militant group.