The government of Punjab has taken firm action against Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), branding the party as an “extremist organization” and proposing a nationwide ban on the country’s third-largest religious party. This decision was made during a high-level meeting on law and order led by Maryam Nawaz, which includes measures such as confiscating all TLP assets, freezing their bank accounts, restricting their promotional materials and social media presence, and subjecting party leaders to the Anti-Terrorism Act.
Additionally, authorities have initiated efforts to address undocumented Afghan individuals and illegal weapons as part of the crackdown, representing the most stringent action taken against a party that was once supported by certain factions within the establishment.
The crackdown follows violent clashes between TLP demonstrators and law enforcement in Muridke, where security personnel used batons and tear gas against the group led by Saad Hussain Rizvi as they moved from Lahore. Pakistan Rangers reportedly engaged with protesters using advanced weaponry, while the TLP resisted police barriers. Reports from Punjab Police indicated the deaths of at least three protesters and one police officer, along with numerous injuries. However, local sources and eyewitnesses suggested that the actual death toll may be significantly higher.
Punjab Police stated that during the dispersal operation, TLP members resorted to throwing stones, using spiked batons and petrol bombs, and engaging in indiscriminate firing, resulting in casualties among civilians and law enforcement officials.
Despite the unrest, the TLP leadership has shown no signs of yielding. The recent turmoil follows a week of escalating tensions in Punjab, including violent confrontations in Lahore as police attempted to prevent the TLP from progressing towards Islamabad for a pro-Palestinian demonstration.
The group accused the police of indiscriminate firing, claiming that 11 of their members were killed and over 50 were wounded. A widely circulated video captured sounds of gunfire, with a TLP leader stating that “11 TLP members were killed since the morning. Continuous shelling and firing is ongoing.”
The protests commenced on October 9 in response to Israeli airstrikes in Gaza and escalated on October 11, with authorities using tear gas and batons, and protesters retaliating with stones. Rizvi reportedly addressed demonstrators during Friday prayers in Lahore, emphasizing their resolve in the face of adversity.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Minister Talal Chaudhry criticized the TLP for exploiting the Gaza crisis for political purposes, emphasizing the government’s intolerance towards violence or coercion by any group. Approximately 170 individuals associated with the TLP have been detained in Sahiwal division under the Maintenance of Public Order. Extensive police presence from multiple districts prevented TLP supporters from advancing beyond Muridke, where they staged a sit-in after authorities created barriers to impede access routes.
Mobile data services have been partially reinstated in Rawalpindi and Islamabad as negotiations with TLP leaders progress.