After 16 Deaths, Shehbaz Sharif Govt Bans Terror Outfit in Pakistan

In recent times in Pakistan, Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) has given a tough challenge to the government of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif. The Sharif government has taken a big step after the violent demonstrations in the name of the Gaza solidarity march. On Wednesday, the Cabinet again banned TLP under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) 1997. This decision was taken unanimously.

Round of violence: 16 deaths, attacks on police

• The demonstrations began on 16 October, when TLP supporters marched towards Islamabad. Purpose: Pro-Gaza protest outside the US Embassy.
• 16 people were killed in the clashes, including several policemen. There were attacks with petrol bombs and weapons near Lahore. Dozens injured.
• The Punjab government first passed the ban proposal in the meeting of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on October 16. Now the Federal Cabinet has approved.

History of TLP: Continuation of violence since 2016

• Founded: 2016 by Khadim Hussain Rizvi. Slogan in defense of blasphemy laws.
• 2021 Ban: Banned for the first time but removed after 6 months on the condition – “No violence”. Now banned again due to violation.
• In the 2024 elections, TLP secured 2.89 million votes in Punjab, becoming the third largest party. but violence continues

Now what's next?

• NACTA List: TLP will be added to the National Counter Terrorism Authority's banned list. It already has organizations like TTP, BLA, LeT, and JeM.
• Legal steps: The decision will be sent to the Supreme Court in 15 days. Official ban after court approval.
• The location of TLP leader Saad Rizvi and his brother is unknown. Bank accounts frozen, offices and mosques sealed

Pakistan's challenge

Pakistan has banned 82 organizations since 2000, but many emerge with new names. TLP's ban is an attempt to control religious extremism, but it is difficult to handle thousands of supporters on the streets. Government claims: “TLP engaged in terrorist and violent activities."