ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s federal cabinet makes a risky decision, declaring Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) a banned organization, citing its alleged involvement in violent protests and defiance of state authority.
The decision approved under the Anti-Terrorism Act came just days after Lahore and Muride witnessed bloody clashes between police and TLP supporters during the group’s “Gaza March” from Lahore to Islamabad. The violent confrontations left five people dead, including a Station House Officer (SHO), and dozens wounded.
The cabinet was briefed in detail by senior Punjab officials through a video link, who described TLP’s recent activities as “a grave threat to public order.” After the violence, authorities launched a massive crackdown across the province, arresting hundreds of party workers and sealing their offices.
The federal cabinet unanimously agreed that Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan has engaged in terrorist and violent activities across the country, violating the assurances it gave to the government in 2021 to maintain peace.”
Ban on TLP
This is not the first time that Saad Rizvi-led party faced such situation. In 2021, Pthe TI government banned the party under similar accusations, only to lift the ban seven months later after a controversial deal that ended the group’s nationwide protests.
Despite that, TLP managed to remain registered with the Election Commission of Pakistan and even contested the 2024 general elections.
This time, the situation is different as the government appears determined to push the process through. To make it firm, Sharif led government must file reference in the Supreme Court within two weeks. If the apex court finds evidence sufficient, it can direct the Election Commission to dissolve the party completely.
What Difference Does the Ban make?
Those familiar with development are divided on whether this bold move will make any real difference as the country’s history is full of similar bans that failed to curb extremism.
In last 20-25 years, dozens of religious and militant outfits have been banned, but extremism has only multiplied, as real issue is that the state never addresses the roots of radicalization.
Some argue that Anti-Terrorism Act itself has often been misused for political purposes. The cabinet’s move signals a renewed push by the Shehbaz Sharif government to tighten its grip on hardline groups that openly defy state writ. Yet, experts caution that history may repeat itself unless the government backs the ban with long-term de-radicalization and governance reforms.
Ban on TLP approved by Federal Cabinet; Case now moves to Supreme Court
