Punjab govt officially requests federal govt to ban TLP

LAHORE/ISLAMABAD: The Punjab government has sent an official letter to the federal government to ban the politico-religious party, Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP). Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari said in a press conference on Friday that the provincial government has approved the ban on TLP.

Bukhari stated unequivocally that the state “cannot back down from its responsibility under any circumstances,” adding that strict measures will be taken against elements promoting extremism and violence.

Citing recent violent protests, the she criticised the actions of TLP and similar groups, noting that 200 police personnel were injured, 97 police vehicles were destroyed, and 69 officers were permanently disabled in clashes. She said, “The martyred SHO was hit by 26 bullets. Is this what peaceful protest looks like?”.

She also announced that the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) will be invoked against individuals inciting violence or spreading hate on social media. “Cases will be registered against those who post inflammatory content online,” she warned, adding that a case is also being recommended under the PECA Act against the former chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Imran Khan.

Bukhari also stressed that no one will be allowed to use religion as a cover for promoting personal or political agendas. “Imposing your thinking in the name of religion is unacceptable,” she said. “You can record your protest without blocking roads or resorting to violence.”

Loudspeaker incitement and public display of weapons will also face a strict crackdown, as the Punjab government moves to assert law and order in the province.

In response to the recent strike calls by religious parties, Bukhari expressed gratitude to the public and the business community for rejecting them. “The people of Pakistan are aware. They will not be misled by anyone,” she said.