ISLAMABAD: The federal cabinet on Thursday approved a ban on Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) under the Anti-Terrorism Act 1997. The decision was made under Section 11B(1) after careful review of the Punjab government’s recommendation. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired the cabinet meeting, where the TLP ban summary was discussed in detail.
TLP had staged violent protests earlier this month to show solidarity with Muslims in Gaza. The party began a march from Lahore and planned demonstrations in Islamabad. Protestors also staged sit-ins at Mureedke and Sadoke. Authorities intervened to restore order and arrested multiple members during the unrest.
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Minister of State Talal Chaudhry said police recovered dangerous items from protestors, including glass marbles, chemicals, sticks, tear gas canisters, and firearms. He questioned whether such actions could be considered peaceful demonstrations. The government stressed that law and order must be maintained across all provinces.
This is not the first time TLP faced a ban. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government had imposed a ban in 2021. However, it was lifted after seven months. Today’s decision highlights the federal government’s commitment to preventing violent political movements and ensuring public safety.
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The cabinet’s action follows the Punjab government’s earlier recommendation and signals strong coordination between provincial and federal authorities. The ban aims to stop future unrest and maintain stability while enforcing the Anti-Terrorism Act across the country.