TLP is accused of inciting violence and damaging public property during the recent unrest.
The Punjab government has decided to ban Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) and confiscate all its properties as TLP is accused of inciting violence and damaging public property during the recent unrest.
The decision was taken during a high-level meeting on law and order chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Wednesday. Officials described the decision as “extraordinary and historic measures” to reaffirm the state’s mandate.
According to government officials, those involved in hate speech and provocations would be arrested immediately. The destruction of state property and the murder of police officers will be prosecuted in anti-terrorism courts.
Read: Punjab cracks down on TLP activists
The meeting agreed that the leadership of the banned group would come under the Fourth Schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), and that all its properties and assets would be placed in the hands of the Auqaf Department. Posters, banners and advertisements belonging to the extremist organization will be completely banned, while their social media accounts that spread hate and violence will be blocked and their bank accounts frozen.
An organization falls under the Fourth Schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997, when there is credible intelligence of being linked to a proscribed organisation, which restricts travel, expression and business of permitted persons.
The provincial government also announced strict enforcement of the Speakers Act, warning that any violation would be met with the harshest measures. The Loudspeaker Law prohibits the use of loud and unnecessary noise that may disturb comfort, health and safety.
Read more: Police file terrorism case against TLP after deadly clashes with Muridke
TLP has also been accused of attacks on churches and temples.
In early 2021, the TLP faced a ban for organizing a nationwide protest, with Punjab being its epicenter; However, the same year, the government lifted that ban after eight months when TLP workers protested to demand the release of TLP chief Saad Rizvi. The content of the deal, which was described as being made in the broader national interest, was kept secret.
Until then, the TLP also enjoyed covert establishment backing that ensured a stronger comeback after the ban and the arrest of its boss. The TLP managed to emerge as the third largest party in the province, in terms of votes, ahead of the country’s second largest political player, the PPP.
Drive against illegal weapons
The Punjab Home Department has issued a one-month ultimatum for citizens to surrender illegal weapons and register legal weapons through Khidmat Centres. All gun dealers and stockists have been ordered to submit their inventories for inspection, while the issuance of new gun licenses has been banned entirely. The government has also recommended to federal authorities that weapons manufacturers and factories be subject to a formal regulatory framework.
Also read: Case registered against the head of the TLP and 21 other people
In a major policy change, the punishment for possession of illegal weapons has been increased to 14 years in prison and a fine of up to Rs 2 million, making it a non-bailable offence. Officials say the measures mark a decisive move by the Punjab government to restore state authority, curb militancy and enforce the rule of law across the province.
