LAHORE; Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari revealed that the top leadership of the banned Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) has gone into hiding and left the province following recent violent demonstrations. Speaking on Geo Pakistan, Bokhari confirmed that according to intelligence reports, TLP’s senior leaders are currently outside Punjab and are experienced in evading arrest.
“Law enforcement agencies are actively pursuing them, and soon you will hear good news,” Bokhari stated.
She cautioned against referring to TLP as a political party, describing it instead as an extremist mindset that society must collectively confront. “This is not a political or religious party; it has operated more like a project to amass wealth and property,” she said.
The provincial information minister further revealed that financial transactions conducted in the name of religion were earning interest, adding that TLP consistently resorts to violence and disrupts law and order whenever it stages demonstrations.
“They have always acted as a pressure group, attempting to dictate terms to the state. Our leadership believes now is the time to correct past mistakes,” Bokhari remarked.
Discussing the government’s recent talks with TLP, Bokhari clarified that the discussions did not involve Gaza or Palestine. “Their demands were only about retrieving valuables seized from their residences and compensation for expenses incurred during protests,” she explained.
On Thursday, the federal cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, approved a ban on TLP under the Anti-Terrorism Act upon Punjab government’s request. The move followed violent protests that left several people dead and many injured.
The Interior Ministry presented the summary, with Punjab officials attending the meeting via video link. The cabinet was informed that TLP’s activities had sparked chaos and unrest across the country.
It was also noted that the previous government had banned TLP in 2021, but the restriction was lifted six months later after the group pledged not to engage in violent activities. The new ban has been imposed after the group once again violated those assurances.
