TLP is accused of inciting violence, damaging public property during recent unrest
The Punjab government has decided to ban Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) and seize 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, which was chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Wednesday. Officials described the decision as “extraordinary and historic measures” to reassert the writ of the state.
According to government officials, those involved in hate speech and provocation would be arrested immediately. The destruction of state property and the killing of policemen will be prosecuted in anti-terrorism courts.
Read: Punjab cracks down on TLP activists
The meeting agreed that the leadership of the banned outfit would be placed under the Fourth Schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), and that all of its properties and assets would be taken over by the Auqaf Department. Posters, banners, and advertisements belonging to the extremist organisation will be completely banned, while its social media accounts spreading hate and violence will be blocked, and its bank accounts frozen.
An organisation is placed under the fourth schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997, when there is credible intelligence information of being linked to a proscribed organisation, which restricts travel, speech and business of individuals allowed.
The provincial government also announced a strict enforcement of the Loudspeaker Act, warning that any violations would be met with the toughest action. The Loudspeaker Act prohibits the use of loud, unnecessary noise that could disturb comfort, health and safety.
Read more: Police file terrorism case against TLP after deadly Muridke clashes
TLP has also been accused of attacks on churches and temples.
Earlier in 2021, the TLP faced a ban for staging a country-wide protest, with Punjab being its epicenter; however, the same year, the government lifted that ban after eight months when TLP workers protested to demand TLP Chief Saad Rizvi’s release. The contents of the agreement that was described as having been done in the larger national interest were kept secret.
Till then, TLP also enjoyed a covert backing of the establishment that made them ensured a stronger comeback after the ban and arrest of its chief. TLP managed to emerge as the third-largest party of the province, in terms of votes, ahead of the second major political player of the country PPP.
Drive against illegal weapons
The Punjab Home Department has issued a one-month ultimatum for citizens to surrender illegal arms and register legal weapons through Khidmat Centres. All arms dealers and weapon stockists have been directed to present their inventories for inspection, while the issuance of new weapon licenses has been completely banned. The government has also recommended to the federal authorities that arms manufacturers and factories be brought under a formal regulatory framework.
Also read: Case registered against TLP chief, 21 others
In a major policy shift, the punishment for possessing illegal arms has been enhanced to 14 years imprisonment and a fine of up to Rs2 million, making it a non-bailable offence. Officials say the steps mark a decisive move by the Punjab government to restore state authority, curb militancy, and enforce the rule of law across the province.
