Punjab Seeks to Ban on ‘Extremist Party’ After Violent Protests

News Desk 

Lahore: The Punjab government has decided to approach the federal government to impose a ban on an “extremist party” following the recent wave of violent protests allegedly led by the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP).

The decision was made during a high-level meeting on law and order chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz in Lahore. The provincial leadership approved what it described as “historic” and “extraordinary” measures to restore peace and uphold the rule of law across the province.

According to an official statement, those involved in inciting violence, spreading hatred, or violating the law would be arrested “immediately.” The statement added that the party’s leaders and workers accused of killing law enforcement personnel and damaging public and private property would be tried in anti-terrorism courts.

The leadership of the party is also expected to be placed on the Fourth Schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act, which restricts the movement and activities of designated individuals.

As part of the crackdown, the provincial government plans to seize all properties and assets linked to the group, which will be transferred to the Auqaf Department. The government has also decided to ban the organization’s posters, banners, and advertisements, shut down its social media accounts, and freeze its bank accounts.

Authorities have further warned that misuse of loudspeakers in violation of the Loudspeaker Act will be met with strict legal action.

The move comes in the wake of violent clashes earlier this week between law enforcement agencies and TLP supporters in Muridke, which left one police officer martyred and at least 48 personnel injured, including 17 with gunshot wounds. 

Three TLP workers and a passerby were also reported dead, while dozens of civilians sustained injuries during the unrest. The clashes also resulted in the burning of several vehicles and shops.

Afghan Citizens to Be Included in Tax Net

In the same meeting, the Punjab government also decided to document and tax Afghan nationals residing in the province.

Officials said real-time data collection would begin to identify undocumented residents, with plans to introduce a whistleblower system allowing citizens to confidentially report illegal foreign residents.

Targeted operations against unregistered foreigners and their businesses will follow, with deportations to be carried out under federal guidelines.

Stricter Arms Control

The provincial government also announced stricter regulations on firearms. Citizens have been given one month to register their legal weapons at local service centres, while arms dealers’ inventories will be inspected. No new licences will be issued during this period.

Punjab has also requested the federal government to regulate arms manufacturers and factories. Under the new measures, possession of illegal weapons will carry a maximum penalty of 14 years in prison and a fine of up to Rs2 million. The offence has been declared non-bailable.