The Interior Ministry on Friday officially declared Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) a banned organization, placing the group under the First Schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA).
The decision comes a day after the federal cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, approved the ban on TLP following a recommendation by the Punjab government.
According to an official statement, the Interior Ministry has reissued the notification declaring TLP as a proscribed outfit, effectively restoring its banned status. The ministry stated that all relevant agencies have been directed to enforce the decision in accordance with the law.
The notification states that the federal government believes TLP is involved in terrorism.
The Law Ministry has also been instructed to prepare a reference for submission to the Supreme Court, as part of the legal process required to formalize the government’s decision.
TLP included in First Schedule list
With the latest notification, TLP has been added to the First Schedule of banned organizations under the Anti-Terrorism Act, which restricts the party’s activities, funding, and organizational operations nationwide.
Also Read: Federal cabinet approves ban on TLP under Anti-Terrorism Act
This inclusion means that all TLP offices, accounts, and public gatherings will be subject to monitoring and legal action by the relevant authorities.
Cabinet approval and provincial recommendation
On Thursday, the federal cabinet approved the banning of Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA).
The move followed a detailed summary presented by the Ministry of Interior on the recommendation of the Punjab government, which cited the group’s involvement in violent protests, killings of police personnel, and acts of arson. It had formally recommended the federal government proscribe TLP under relevant anti-terror and public order laws.
Briefing reveals TLP’s pattern of violence and unrest
According to the briefing given to the cabinet, TLP — established in 2016 — has consistently incited unrest across the country. The party’s activities have led to widespread chaos, violence, and destruction of property, often resulting in the deaths of law enforcement officials and innocent civilians during protests and rallies.
Evidence presented to the cabinet reportedly confirmed TLP’s direct involvement in terrorist and violent acts, including the use of weapons and attacks on security forces.
