ISLAMABAD: Political analysts and journalists have welcomed the federal cabinet’s decision to impose a ban on Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), terming it a necessary but long-delayed step to restore law and order.
Talk to PK Press Club NewsHowever, experts urged the government to ensure that this action is legally sustainable and applied consistently.
Political analyst Ahmed Bilal Mehboob said the government was legally justified in banning the TLP following the recent wave of violent protests.
“In the past, this party has engaged in similar acts of violence. The TLP was banned once in 2021, and given the latest incidents, the government’s justification seems valid,” he said.
However, he stressed that the final decision would be up to the courts. “Ultimately, the matter will be contested in court and the judiciary will make the final decision,” he added.
Presenter Shahzeb Khanzada called the ban “an important decision,” saying the state had repeatedly surrendered to the group since 2017 despite its violent record.
“TLP protests have repeatedly resulted in police deaths and injuries, but the state has signed deals instead of taking decisive action,” he said.
He added that the government must now put in place a “comprehensive policy” ensuring that no group is allowed to spread hatred, attack civilians, police officers or religious minorities. “The state must ensure that those who fund and support these organizations are held accountable,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, presenter Shahzad Iqbal said the only lasting solution was consistent implementation of the law and the Constitution.
“Since the establishment of the TLP, we have witnessed repeated violations of the law without real consequences. Despite the loss of lives and property, governments have continued to sign agreements with them,” he said.
Iqbal added that if the current decision of the government is in accordance with the law, it must be implemented firmly. “The case will be brought before the Supreme Court, and if the court approves it, the ban will be formally enforced,” he noted.
