Islamabad(The COW News Digital) The Pakistani government has intensified its crackdown on the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) following a wave of violent protests that erupted across major cities. In the wake of deadly clashes, property damage, and public unrest, the government has decided to ban the hardline religious party and seal all its central and district offices nationwide.
According to official sources, police have sealed TLP offices in Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with dozens of arrests reported in Lahore alone. The Ministry of Interior has begun preparing a formal notification for the party’s proscription under anti-terrorism laws.
Last week, protests broke out in Lahore, Muridke, Gujranwala, and Karachi, quickly turning violent. Police said demonstrators blocked major highways, disrupted traffic, and attacked government property. Several police officers were injured during clashes as law enforcement used tear gas, water cannons, and rubber bullets to disperse the crowds.
Witnesses reported scenes of chaos, with both protesters and security personnel sustaining injuries. Many were shifted to hospitals for medical treatment as violence spread to multiple cities.
Security agencies have launched a series of raids targeting TLP chief Hafiz Saad Hussain Rizvi and his close aides. Officials claimed to have recovered large sums of cash, foreign currency, gold, and incendiary materials during these operations.
Investigators are probing the group’s alleged foreign funding channels and incitement activities, with charges including terrorism, sedition, and money laundering being added to the case files. Rizvi is accused of instigating public unrest and encouraging anti-state demonstrations during the protests.
Despite the crackdown, TLP supporters have continued demonstrations in Lahore, Gujranwala, Multan, Karachi, Quetta, and Peshawar, demanding Rizvi’s release and the reversal of the ban. Public transport, trade activities, and educational institutions have been disrupted in several areas.
The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province, banning all public gatherings. The federal government has also launched a social media monitoring campaign, suspending dozens of accounts accused of spreading hate speech and anti-state narratives.
The move has sparked political debate nationwide. Opposition parties have criticized the crackdown, calling it an attempt to suppress religious groups. Meanwhile, human rights organizations urged the government to ensure transparency and due process for detainees.
Analysts warn that while the ban may restore temporary order, it could push the group underground — complicating efforts to counter religious extremism in the long term.
Amir Shehzad Editor
