Punjab ban extremist party -The Punjab government, under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has approved strong measures to reinforce state authority and restore the rule of law across the province.
In a high-level meeting chaired by the Chief Minister, it was decided that the provincial government will recommend the federal government to impose a ban on an extremist party involved in inciting violence and lawlessness.
According to official sources, individuals spreading hate speech, incitement, and chaos will be arrested immediately. Those responsible for the martyrdom of police officers and destruction of public property will face trials in anti-terrorism courts (ATCs).
The Punjab government’s plan also includes placing the extremist party’s leadership in the Fourth Schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) 1997, which lists individuals suspected of terrorism or sectarianism. All assets and properties of the group will be handed over to the Auqaf Department.
Moreover, the display of the party’s posters, banners, and advertisements will be banned, and its social media accounts will be blocked. Bank accounts linked to the organization will also be frozen, while the Loudspeaker Act will be strictly enforced across Punjab.
The move comes amid growing concerns about the violent record of the group, including attacks on law enforcers and ransacking of minority worship places. Officials said these steps aim to prevent future unrest and uphold the rule of law in Punjab.
Meanwhile, police have launched a manhunt for TLP chief Saad Rizvi, who reportedly fled during an operation. Lahore DIG Faisal Kamran confirmed that his location has been traced and he will be arrested soon.
State Minister for Interior Talal Chaudhry stated that action against the group’s protesters will mirror the response taken against those involved in the May 9, 2023 riots.
