Punjab Cabinet Bans TLP as Crackdown on Extremism Expands
The Punjab cabinet bans TLP and has sent a summary to the federal government to formalize the decision. Information Minister Azma Bokhari made the announcement during a press conference in Lahore on Friday. She said the government will not allow anyone to impose their ideology in the name of religion.
Punjab Takes Firm Action
Azma Bokhari explained that the recent TLP protest turned violent even though it was held under the banner of Gaza. She said a ceasefire was already in place due to the efforts of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief General Asim Munir.
The minister stated that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is focused on welfare programs, not unrest. These include the farmer card scheme and construction of 90,000 new houses. She added, “Extremism has grown into a dangerous trend where anyone can block roads to press demands.”
Bokhari condemned violence and misuse of religion for personal gain. She said some groups exploit faith to gather wealth and power.
Crackdown on TLP Offices
Rejecting claims of failed talks, Bokhari said the TLP’s motives were personal, not religious. She noted that traders and citizens rejected the protest call, keeping all markets open.
She reported that one police inspector was martyred and over 1,600 officers injured in the violence. Authorities damaged or burned nearly 100 police vehicles. “Is this what they call a peaceful protest?” she asked.
Meanwhile, Islamabad officials sealed several TLP offices, mosques, and seminaries. This joint crackdown shows the government’s determination to fight violent extremism and protect national peace.
