The federal government has officially declared Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) a banned organisation under the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997, following approval by the federal cabinet. The decision came after a request from the Punjab provincial government, which had recommended action based on recent violent clashes and public unrest linked to the group.
According to the notification issued by the Ministry of Interior, TLP has been placed in the First Schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act. The government stated that it has substantial grounds to believe the group is involved in activities that threaten public safety, undermine state authority, and promote violence.
The ban imposes strict legal consequences: TLP’s organisational activities may be halted, financial accounts frozen, and its assets seized. The government has directed relevant agencies to begin implementing these measures. The party’s leadership and activists may also face movement restrictions under security laws.
However, under the Constitution of Pakistan, the final enforcement of the ban requires confirmation from the Supreme Court. The government is preparing to submit a formal reference, supported by evidence, within the stipulated time frame. The Court will evaluate the material much like in a criminal proceeding before making a final determination on whether the party remains outlawed.
Previously, attempts to ban TLP have been followed by negotiations and reversals, but officials say the current decision reflects a firmer stance toward maintaining law and order. The government maintains that the move is necessary to safeguard public peace and prevent further violence.
TLP leadership has rejected the decision and signaled it will challenge the ban through legal and political avenues.
The coming weeks will be critical as legal proceedings begin and enforcement agencies move to implement state directives across the country.
