Punjab Information Minister Azma Zahid Bokhari announced that the federal government will decide today whether to ban Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP). Speaking at a press conference in Lahore, she said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif would chair a cabinet meeting where the group’s fate would be finalized. Bokhari added that 3,600 local and foreign financiers of the party have been identified and their funding channels blocked.
The minister accused TLP leaders, including chief Saad Rizvi, of inciting violence and damaging public property during recent protests. She warned parents to keep their children away from the group’s activities, saying terrorism charges would be filed against those involved in violent acts. Bokhari said police vehicles were snatched, properties were set on fire, and officers were attacked during demonstrations held under the banner of Gaza and Palestine solidarity.
Read more: Police arrest over 950 TLP activists
She revealed that TLP’s bank accounts had been frozen and its financial networks dismantled. “No one can fight the state,” Bokhari asserted, adding that the government would take strict action against extremist elements. She said 75 social media links spreading hate had already been blocked, and further monitoring was underway.
Bokhari also announced a province-wide ban on issuing new arms licences, reaffirming Punjab’s goal of becoming arms-free. Over 500 dealers had applied for licence validation, while 90 were still under review. She said the shops of unlicensed dealers were sealed, and thousands of registered arms with companies and institutions were now being verified.
Read more: Bangladesh Court Orders Jail for 15 Top Army Officers
The minister further warned illegal residents in Punjab to return to their countries, saying data collection for arrests had begun. She said no one would be allowed to disturb public order, and those attempting to shut markets or disrupt transport would face terrorism cases. “Every possible step will be taken to protect peace in Punjab,” Bokhari concluded.