Punjab proposes ban on ‘extremist party’ in wake of violent protests by TLP

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The Punjab government has decided to recommend the Center to ban the “extremist party” following the recent violent protests by Tehreek-e-Libbaik Pakistan (TLP).

In a high-level meeting on law and order chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz in Lahore, the provincial leadership approved the “historic” and “extraordinary” measures.

Without naming either party, a statement issued by the provincial government said those involved in inciting violence, spreading hatred and violating the law would be “immediately” arrested.

It further said that efforts will be made to implicate extremist party leaders and activists responsible for the killing of law enforcement personnel and damage to public property.

The party leadership is also expected to be placed on the Fourth Schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act, which places strict limits on their movements and activities.

As part of the wider clampdown, the provincial government plans to seize all the party’s properties and assets, which will be handed over to the Okauf department. It is also moving to completely ban posters, banners and advertisements of the group. Their social media accounts will be shut down, and associated bank accounts will be frozen. The statement also indicated that any misuse of loudspeakers, in violation of the Loudspeaker Act, would attract stiff penalties.

The move comes as part of a wider crackdown aimed at restoring public order and strengthening the state’s writ and rule of law following recent unrest in the province.

Earlier this week, law enforcement agencies launched a crackdown on TLP protesters and dismantled their protest camp in Murdke, leading to violent clashes and dozens of arrests.

According to a senior police official, a station house officer (SHO) on duty was martyred, and 48 policemen were injured, 17 of whom were injured in firing during clashes with TLP protesters.

TLP protesters attempted to march towards the federal capital despite the ban on public assembly under Section 144, leading to days of chaos.

The TLP march burnt at least 40 government and private vehicles and several shops were also set on fire.

At least three TLP workers and a bystander were killed in the violent clashes, while at least 30 civilians were reportedly injured.

Inclusion of Afghan nationals in the tax net

In the same session, the Punjab government has also decided to focus on undocumented Afghan nationals residing in the province. It plans to include Afghan nationals in the tax net and begin collecting real-time data on those living illegally.

Meanwhile, a whistle-blowing system is being introduced to allow people to report illegal residents while keeping their identity confidential.

The government will also target unregistered aliens and their businesses, and deport them under federal guidelines.

Strict weapon laws

Moreover, the provincial government is also coming down hard on those who have illegal weapons. Citizens have been given one month to register their legal firearms at local service centers. Arms dealers’ inventories across the province will be checked, and no new licenses will be issued during this time. The province has also asked the federal government to step in and regulate arms manufacturers and factories.

One of the most significant changes is the toughening of penalties for illegal possession of firearms. As of now, offenders can face up to 14 years in prison and a fine of up to Rs 2 million. The offense will now be considered non-bailable.