The Punjab government has taken measures to approach the Centre to impose a ban on an “extremist party” following the recent wave of violent protests organised by the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP).
At a high-level meeting on law and order, chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz in Lahore, the provincial leadership approved “historic” and “extraordinary” measures.
Without naming any party, the statement issued by the provincial government said those involved in inciting violence, spreading hatred and violating the law will be arrested “immediately”.
Also read: Why has terrorism case been filed against TLP’s Saad Rizvi?
It further said that extremist party leaders and workers responsible for the deaths of law enforcement agencies’ personnel and involved in damaging public property will be tried in anti-terrorism courts.
Leadership to be placed at Fourth Schedule
The leadership of the party is also expected to be placed on the Fourth Schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act, which places strict limits on their movement and activities.
As part of the broader clampdown, the provincial government plans to seize all of the party’s properties and assets, which will be handed over to the Auqaf Department. It’s also moving to ban the group’s posters, banners, and advertisements entirely.
Their social media accounts will be shut down, and any associated bank accounts frozen. The statement has also signalled that any misuse of loudspeakers, in violation of the Loudspeaker Act, will be met with tough penalties.
The move comes as part of a broader crackdown aimed at restoring public order and reinforcing the writ of the state and rule of law after recent unrest across the province.
Crackdown on TLP protesters
Earlier this week, the law enforcement agencies launched a crackdown on TLP protesters and dismantled their protest camp in Muridke, resulting in violent clashes and dozens of arrests.
According to the senior police official, one station house officer (SHO) on duty was martyred, and 48 police personnel sustained injuries, 17 of whom were wounded by gunfire during the clashes with TLP protesters.
Also read: Ex-TLP leader Pir Afzal Qadri passes away after illness
TLP protesters tried marching towards the federal capital despite the ban on public gathering under Section 144, resulting in days of turmoil across
The TLP march also left at least 40 government and private vehicles burnt and several shops set ablaze.
At least three TLP workers and a passerby died in the violent clashes, while reports showed that at least 30 civilians were also wounded.
