The TLP is 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 during a high-level meeting on law and order chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Wednesday. Officials described the decision as “extraordinary and historic measures” to confirm the state’s subpoena.
According to government officials, those involved in hate speech and provocations would be arrested immediately. Destruction of state property and killing of police officers will be prosecuted in anti-terrorist courts.
Read: Punjab cracks down on TLP activists
The meeting agreed that the management of the banned outfit would be placed 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 that spread 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 when there is credible intelligence of being linked to a proscribed organization which restricts the travel, speech and business of individuals permitted.
The provincial government also announced strict enforcement of the Loudspeaker Act and warned that any violation would be met with the harshest action. The Loudspeaker Act prohibits the use of loud, unnecessary noise that may disturb comfort, health and safety.
Read 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 on staging a nationwide protest, with Punjab as its epicenter; But in the same year, the government lifted this ban after eight months when TLP workers protested to demand the release of TLP chief Saad Rizvi. The content of the agreement, which was described as being in the greater national interest, was kept secret.
Until then, TLP also enjoyed a covert backing from the establishment that made them secure a stronger comeback after the ban and the arrest of its boss. The TLP managed to emerge as the third largest party in the province in terms of votes ahead of the other major political player in the country PPP.
Drive against illegal weapons
The Punjab Home Ministry has issued an ultimatum of one month for citizens to surrender illegal weapons and register legal weapons through Khidmat centres. All arms dealers and dealers have been directed to submit their accounts for inspection, while the issuance of new arms licenses has been completely banned. The government has also recommended to the federal authorities that arms manufacturers and factories be brought under a formal regulatory framework.
Read also: Case registered against TLP chief, 21 others
In a major policy shift, the punishment for possession of illegal weapons has been increased to 14 years in prison and a fine of up to Rs.2 million, making it a non-bailable offence. Officials say the steps mark a decisive step by Punjab to restore the state’s authority, curb militancy and enforce the rule of law across the province.
