The government has decided to take firm action against TLP protests across the country. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry said measures will mirror those taken after the May 9 unrest. He stressed that the state would no longer tolerate extremism, blackmail, or violence in the name of politics or religion.
Chaudhry told Geo News that since the new administration took office, Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) has twice attempted to march toward Islamabad. He said previous agreements with the group were not in the state’s favor. Now, the government has adopted a decisive approach to prevent chaos and ensure law and order.
READ MORE:Muridke cleared of TLP protesters as normalcy returns to Punjab
He also rejected the group’s claim that their protests were about Gaza or Palestine. According to him, the TLP protests were driven by shocking demands, including money, government posts for clerics, and the release of convicted members. He accused the group of exploiting religion to weaken Pakistan, especially when the nation faces threats on both borders.
Law enforcement launched a major pre-dawn operation on Monday to dismantle a TLP protest camp in Muridke. The six-hour clash involved around 1,500 police officers equipped with riot gear, armoured vehicles, and water cannons. Hundreds of demonstrators were arrested, though exact numbers are yet to be confirmed.
READ MORE:TLP begins march on Islamabad; clashes reported in Lahore
Talal Chaudhry warned that fake news about TLP protests was spreading again. He said state institutions, including cybercrime units, were taking action against online threats and misinformation. He assured that the government would uphold peace and not let extremist elements disrupt national stability.