ISLAMABAD: The federal cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, on Thursday approved a decision to impose a ban on the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), following recommendations from the Punjab government and recent violent incidents involving the group.
The decision came during a cabinet meeting convened in Islamabad to review the overall law and order situation and assess the activities of the religious-political organisation. The cabinet’s endorsement formalises an earlier proposal by the Punjab government to outlaw the group under the Anti-Terrorism Act.
The Punjab government had last week recommended to the Centre that a complete ban be placed on the TLP after its “Gaza March” in Muridke turned violent on October 13. The protest, initially staged in solidarity with Palestinians, escalated into clashes with law enforcement agencies after authorities attempted to disperse the demonstrators.
In a high-level meeting chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the provincial administration resolved to take strict action against those responsible for the violence. It was decided that TLP leaders and workers allegedly involved in the killing of police personnel and destruction of public and private property would be tried in anti-terrorism courts (ATCs).
According to Punjab Police, the Muridke crackdown resulted in the death of one station house officer (SHO) and left at least 48 police and Rangers personnel injured, including 17 who sustained gunshot wounds. Law enforcement officials accused the protesters of using firearms, sticks, and stones during the confrontation.
Interior Ministry sources said the federal government’s decision will soon be notified, after which the group’s offices and assets could be sealed, and its accounts frozen. The ministry will also move to include the organisation on the list of proscribed groups.
The TLP has previously faced bans and restrictions over violent protests in 2017, 2021, and 2022, often triggered by issues related to blasphemy laws and foreign policy. Thursday’s decision marks the Sharif government’s most decisive action yet against the group, signaling a zero-tolerance approach toward violent political movements.
