Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari announced on Friday that the provincial government had officially forwarded a summary to the federal government seeking a ban on Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP). She confirmed that the Punjab cabinet had already approved the move, fulfilling all provincial legal requirements, and that the matter now rests with the Centre for further action.
The decision followed recent violent protests organized by the TLP, which claimed to demonstrate solidarity with Gaza but led to chaos and clashes with law enforcement in Muridke.
During a press conference in Lahore, Bokhari criticized the TLP for repeatedly disrupting public life under the guise of religious causes. She cited previous violent protests in 2017, 2019, 2021, and 2022, saying that this time the government and state had jointly decided not to allow such unrest to continue.
She noted that 1,648 police personnel were injured in last week’s clashes, including 202 severely, and accused the TLP of inciting violence, burning vehicles, and attacking law enforcement. She stressed that the government’s measures were not against any religious group but specifically targeted “extremist elements” that threaten public order.
Bokhari outlined several steps taken by the Punjab government, including enforcing zero-tolerance for hate speech via loudspeakers, sealing social media and bank accounts of the group, and registering cases under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) for spreading hateful or false content online.
She also announced a complete ban on the public display of weapons and warned that unregistered or illegal arms would lead to legal action under terrorism laws.
The Punjab cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, also decided to place TLP leaders on the Fourth Schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act, which targets individuals suspected of extremism.
Meanwhile, the Lahore High Court sought replies from the Punjab government and police on TLP petitions seeking the return of bodies allegedly killed during the Muridke operation and medical care for the injured.
Punjab Inspector General Dr. Usman Anwar reaffirmed that no group would be allowed to take the law into its hands, stressing full enforcement of Section 144 and strict action against violent agitators. The Punjab police, he added, are maintaining high alert and ensuring public safety amid calls for fresh protests.
