The Punjab government is moving toward banning the rightwing group Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) after violent clashes in Muridke. Scores of policemen were injured as they tried to stop TLP supporters from marching toward Islamabad. This would mark the second time the group faces a ban, as it was briefly outlawed in 2021 after similar street violence erupted.
Clashes Erupt During Protest March
The TLP had planned to reach Islamabad to stage a protest outside the US Embassy in solidarity with Palestinians. However, their march turned violent as they faced police resistance. Protesters set fire to vehicles, threw stones, and blocked roads. Nearly 48 policemen were injured in the chaos. The clashes caused widespread fear and disrupted traffic along the Grand Trunk Road.
Six-Hour Operation Ends the Unrest
Authorities launched a massive operation at around 3 am in Muridke to control the situation. The operation lasted six hours and resulted in the arrest of hundreds of protesters. Internet services were suspended in parts of the province to prevent misinformation. Reports suggested that TLP chief Saad Rizvi was injured and later went underground to avoid arrest as tensions continued to rise.
Maryam Nawaz Orders Firm Action
In response to the violence, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz chaired an emergency meeting with her law-and-order team. After reviewing the situation, the Punjab government decided to place TLP under the Fourth Schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act. This law allows the government to restrict the movement, speech, and financial activities of people associated with banned organizations.
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Crackdown on TLP’s Assets and Media
Once the ban is enforced, TLP’s offices, assets, and bank accounts will be seized by the government. The Auqaf Department will take over its properties. The display of banners, flags, and posters linked to the group will be banned. Authorities will also block the group’s social media handles to prevent the spread of hate content or incitement to violence online.
Enforcement of the Loudspeaker Act
The Punjab government has also decided to strictly enforce the Loudspeaker Act. This law restricts the use of loud or unnecessary noise that could disturb public peace, health, or safety. It will be applied especially to religious gatherings and processions to prevent hate speech and reduce tensions. Officials said violators will face strict legal action and fines.
Crackdown on Illegal Weapons
To further tighten law and order, the Punjab Home Department has given citizens one month to surrender illegal weapons. Legal arms must be registered within the same period. The government also increased punishment for possessing illegal arms to 14 years in prison and a fine of up to Rs2 million. The move aims to curb violence and maintain stability across the province.
TLP’s Previous Ban and Political Comeback
The TLP had earlier been banned in 2021 after leading violent nationwide protests. The unrest began in Punjab and soon spread to other parts of Pakistan. The government lifted the ban eight months later after negotiations with party leaders. Despite its brief suspension, the group returned to mainstream politics and became the third-largest party in Punjab in the last general elections.
A Challenge for Punjab’s Stability
The renewed move to ban the TLP highlights the government’s growing concern over extremist activities disrupting peace. While some view it as a necessary step to ensure stability, others warn it may deepen political divides. For now, Punjab’s leadership seems determined to restore calm, prevent further violence, and protect citizens from future unrest linked to radical movements.
