In a significant move amid rising tensions, the Punjab cabinet has approved a recommendation to ban the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), a far-right religious party known for its history of violent protests. This decision, announced on October 17, 2025, comes after deadly clashes during TLP’s recent demonstrations over a Gaza peace deal. While the provincial government has forwarded the proposal to the federal authorities for final approval, it signals a tougher stance against groups that challenge state authority through unrest. The move has sparked debates on religious freedom, public order, and the limits of protest in Pakistan.
Key Points
- Decision Overview: The Punjab cabinet, led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, approved the ban on TLP following violent protests that injured hundreds and damaged property. Research suggests this could lead to asset seizures and account freezes if federally approved, though the outcome remains uncertain pending central government action.
- Context of Clashes: Protests began over a US-brokered Gaza truce, but escalated into violence, with conflicting reports on casualties—government sources report minimal deaths, while TLP claims hundreds. It seems likely that the unrest was a tipping point, highlighting ongoing issues with extremism.
- Historical Pattern: TLP has a track record of disruptive actions, including past bans, raising questions about repeated cycles of leniency and crackdowns. Evidence leans toward viewing this as part of a broader effort to enforce law and order, though critics argue it may suppress legitimate dissent.
- Potential Impacts: If implemented, the ban could reduce street violence but might fuel underground extremism or legal battles. The situation acknowledges the complexity of balancing security with rights, especially in a religiously diverse society.
Background on TLP
Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan, often abbreviated as TLP, emerged in 2015 as a religio-political group rooted in the Barelvi sect of Sunni Islam. Founded by Khadim Hussain Rizvi, it quickly gained attention for its hardline stance on blasphemy laws, advocating immediate punishment for those accused. The party first made headlines by supporting Mumtaz Qadri, who assassinated Punjab Governor Salmaan Taseer in 2011 over his views on blasphemy reforms. Over the years, TLP has organized multiple protests that turned violent, including blockades in major cities and clashes with law enforcement.
In elections, TLP has shown electoral strength without major wins—securing over two million votes in both 2018 and 2024 but limited seats. After Rizvi’s death in 2020, his sons Saad and Anas took over, continuing the party’s focus on religious issues. However, critics point to attacks on minorities, such as Christians and Ahmadis, as evidence of its extremist leanings.
The Trigger: Gaza Protests and Escalation
The latest unrest stemmed from TLP’s opposition to a US-mediated peace plan for Gaza, announced in late September 2025. The deal, involving an end to hostilities and prisoner exchanges, was rejected by TLP as a “conspiracy” against Palestinians. They launched the “Al-Aqsa Gaza March” from Lahore on October 10, aiming for Islamabad.
Clashes intensified on October 13 in Muridke, where police raided a protest camp, leading to injuries and arrests. Official reports note one police death and dozens injured, while TLP alleges hundreds of their workers were killed.
Government Response
Punjab’s cabinet met on October 16 and approved the ban the next day, with Minister Azma Bokhari emphasizing that such chaos in the name of religion cannot continue. Federal officials have labeled TLP as anarchists, supporting the crackdown.
In recent weeks, Pakistan has witnessed a surge in tensions as the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) once again clashed with authorities, prompting the Punjab cabinet to take decisive action. On October 17, 2025, Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari revealed that the provincial cabinet had approved a recommendation to ban the party, forwarding it to the federal government for final proscription under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA). This development follows a pattern of unrest tied to TLP’s activities, but this time, it’s linked to international events like the Gaza conflict, blending local religious fervor with global politics.
To understand this fully, let’s trace TLP’s origins and evolution. Formed in 2015 by cleric Khadim Hussain Rizvi, TLP positioned itself as a defender of Islamic values, particularly blasphemy laws. Rizvi, who passed away in 2020, built the party’s base by rallying around high-profile cases, such as the assassination of Governor Salmaan Taseer. Under his sons’ leadership, TLP has continued this approach, often mobilizing crowds for protests that disrupt daily life.
The party’s electoral performance is noteworthy: in 2018, it garnered over two million votes, ranking fifth nationally, and repeated a similar showing in 2024. Yet, its street power has overshadowed political gains, with violent episodes in 2017, 2019, 2021, and 2022 leading to temporary bans—like the 2021 federal proscription that was later lifted after negotiations.
The immediate catalyst was TLP’s “Al-Aqsa Gaza March,” announced in response to a US-brokered peace plan for Gaza on September 29, 2025. The plan, which included ceasefires and prisoner releases but no firm Palestinian state commitment, was seen by TLP as a betrayal. Starting October 10 from Lahore, the march aimed at the US embassy in Islamabad but faced roadblocks and police intervention.
By October 13, violence erupted in Muridke during a predawn raid on the protest site. Police used tear gas and gunfire to disperse crowds, resulting in at least one officer’s death and over 50 injuries. TLP claims hundreds of fatalities among its ranks, alleging bodies were hidden, while government figures cite only three TLP deaths. Over 2,700 arrests followed, with 2,800 placed on exit control lists. Leaders Saad and Anas Rizvi are reportedly in hiding, with police planning their arrest.
In response, the Punjab cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, approved the ban on October 17. Minister Bokhari stressed that protests turning violent, especially post-Gaza truce, were unjustified. The government plans to place TLP leaders on the ATA’s Fourth Schedule, seize assets, freeze bank accounts, remove posters, and shut down hate-spreading social media. Section 144 was imposed province-wide to prevent gatherings, and crackdowns extended to TLP offices in Islamabad.
TLP has vehemently denied instigating violence, insisting the march was peaceful and blaming authorities for brutality. They filed petitions in the Lahore High Court on October 17, demanding the return of alleged bodies, medical aid for the injured, and the release of detained leaders. The court has scheduled hearings for October 23.
Experts like Abdul Basit from the International Centre for Political Violence and Terrorism Research argue TLP misjudged public support, noting the protest failed to draw broader alliances. Muhammad Amir Rana from the Pak Institute of Peace Studies sees this as a shift, with the state finally holding TLP accountable for past unpunished violence. Former minister Fawad Chaudhry supports the action, criticizing TLP’s rhetoric against minorities.
On social media, reactions vary. Many users praise the decision, crediting Maryam Nawaz for tackling extremism where others hesitated. Posts highlight hopes that banning TLP could pave the way for addressing other groups like TTP. However, some express concerns over potential overreach.
Broader implications include strengthened state authority but risks of alienating religious communities. If approved federally, this could mark a turning point in Pakistan’s fight against militancy, though past revocations suggest challenges ahead.
Timeline of Key TLP Events
| Year | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | Formation | Founded by Khadim Hussain Rizvi, focusing on blasphemy issues. |
| 2017 | First Major Protest | Nationwide blockade over perceived blasphemy. |
| 2018 | Elections | Over 2 million votes, 3 provincial seats in Sindh. |
| 2020 | Leadership Change | Khadim Rizvi dies; sons Saad and Anas take over. |
| 2021 | Ban and Revocation | Banned in April, lifted in November after protests. |
| 2024 | Elections | Over 2 million votes, 1 provincial seat in Punjab. |
| 2025 | Gaza March and Ban Proposal | Clashes on October 13; Punjab approves ban on October 17. |
This table illustrates TLP’s recurring involvement in controversies, underscoring why the current ban push feels like a culmination of years of tensions.
In conclusion, while the ban awaits federal nod, it reflects growing impatience with groups that use religion to justify disorder. Pakistan’s path forward will depend on consistent enforcement and dialogue to prevent future escalations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What decision did the Punjab cabinet make regarding TLP?
As detailed, the cabinet approved the ban on October 17, 2025, under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s leadership, and sent it to the Centre. This includes placing leaders on watchlists.
Why is the Punjab government seeking to ban TLP?
Beyond the Gaza protests, TLP’s history includes attacks on minorities and repeated disruptions, as noted by critics.
What is TLP, and what is its background?
TLP’s roots in Barelvi ideology have led to electoral gains but also accusations of extremism.
What happens if the federal government approves the ban?
Implementation would involve multi-agency coordination, potentially affecting TLP’s operations nationwide.
How did the recent protests lead to this decision?
The march aimed at the US embassy but was halted, leading to accusations of state brutality.
