TLP accused of inciting violence and 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 at a high-level meeting on law and order, chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Wednesday. Officials called the move “extraordinary and historic steps” aimed at reaffirming the state’s mandate.
According to government officials, those involved in hate speech and provocations would be immediately arrested. The destruction of state property and the killing of police officers will be prosecuted in anti-terrorism courts.
Read: Punjab cracks down on TLP activists
The meeting agreed that the leaders of the banned group would be brought under the Fourth Schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) and all its properties and assets would be taken over by the Auqaf department. Posters, banners and advertisements belonging to the extremist organization will be completely banned, while its social media accounts spreading hatred and violence will be blocked and its bank accounts frozen.
An organization is placed under the Fourth Schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act 1997, where there is credible intelligence information indicating that it is linked to a proscribed organisation, which restricts the movement, speech and affairs of authorized individuals.
The provincial government also announced strict enforcement of the loudspeaker law, warning that any violations would face the harshest measures. The loudspeaker law prohibits the use of loud and unnecessary noise that could disrupt comfort, health and safety.
Learn more: Police file terrorism case against TLP after deadly Muridke clashes
The TLP has also been accused of attacks on churches and temples.
Earlier in 2021, the TLP faced a ban for staging a nationwide protest, with Punjab being its epicenter; However, in the same year, the government lifted this ban after eight months when TLP workers protested demanding the release of TLP leader Saad Rizvi. The contents of the agreement, described as having been reached in the broader national interest, were kept secret.
Until then, the TLP also benefited from secret support from the establishment which allowed it to ensure a stronger comeback after the ban and the arrest of its leader. The TLP managed to establish itself as the third party in the province, in terms of votes, ahead of the second major political actor in the country PPP.
Fight against illegal weapons
The Punjab Home Department has issued a one-month ultimatum to citizens to return illegal weapons and register legal weapons through Khidmat centers. All arms dealers and stockists were asked to present their stocks for inspection, while the issuance of new arms permits was completely banned. The government also recommended to federal authorities that arms manufacturers and factories be subject to a formal regulatory framework.
Also read: Case registered against TLP chief and 21 others
In a major policy change, the punishment for possessing illegal weapons has been increased to 14 years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to Rs 2 million, making it a non-bailable offence. Officials say the moves mark a decisive step by the Punjab government to restore state authority, curb militancy and uphold the rule of law across the province.
