The Punjab cabinet has formally approved a ban on Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) and forwarded a recommendation to the federal government for final action, Provincial Information Minister Azma Bukhari announced during a media talk in Lahore.

The decision comes amid rising concerns over violent protests, incitement on social media, and illegal weapons possession by certain groups in the province.

Govt rejects claims of protest deaths

Azma Bukhari categorically rejected claims of hundreds of deaths during recent protests, calling the allegations “baseless propaganda.”

“It is not possible to hide the bodies. These claims were spread deliberately to mislead the public,” she said. The minister clarified that the move against TLP was not directed against any sect, mosque, or madrassa, but rather against those challenging the writ of the state.

“Those who raise batons, set fire to property, and disrupt peace cannot be considered sympathizers of the country,” she added.

Crackdown on illegal weapons and hate speech

Azma announced that the Punjab government has stopped issuing new arms licenses, instructing citizens to deposit illegal weapons within one month. She warned that failure to surrender unlicensed weapons would result in terrorism cases being filed under relevant laws.

Additionally, action will be taken against the unnecessary use of loudspeakers, while social media content inciting violence or arson will be prosecuted under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA).

“No one will be allowed to use social media to spread hate, provoke riots, or endanger peace,” Bukhari emphasized.

Protests condemned, Gaza narrative addressed

The information minister criticised recent protest calls made in Punjab “in the name of solidarity with Palestine,” saying they came after the Gaza peace agreement had already been reached.

“This group has a history of trying to shut down the country under different pretexts,” she said. “Has the Gaza issue been resolved by damaging our own cities and businesses?”

She further stressed that violence and coercion cannot replace dialogue, saying, “It is not permissible to convince anyone with the force of sticks.”

Business community lauded for rejecting strike call

Bukhari expressed gratitude to the business community for rejecting calls for a strike and continuing operations despite attempts to create unrest.

She also urged media outlets to show city footage reflecting normalcy, reinforcing the government’s message that law and order has been restored and that public cooperation remains strong.

Govt's stand on law and order

Reiterating the province’s stance, Azma Bukhari said the government’s actions are solely aimed at maintaining peace and stability.

“No one can be allowed to take away fundamental rights or endanger public safety. The Punjab government stands with the people, not with those who seek chaos,” she concluded.