By Ata Ur Rahmen 
Punjab Government TLP Ban: Major Crackdown on Illegal Funding and Extremism
The Punjab Government TLP ban represents one of the strongest provincial actions against a religious-political organisation in recent years. At a press conference, Provincial Information Minister Azma Bokhari announced that all bank accounts of Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) have been frozen, its funding halted, and properties linked to the group’s leadership sealed.
According to official reports, 95 bank accounts tied to the group and its leaders, Saad Rizvi and Anas Rizvi, have been sealed, while efforts are underway to trace both individuals. Bokhari stated that both brothers will soon be brought before the law.
The announcement marks a decisive move by the Punjab government to curb violent extremism, financial irregularities, and misuse of religion for political gains.
Crackdown on TLP Assets and Illegal Wealth
Azma Bokhari detailed a series of seizures under the Punjab Government TLP ban, confirming that both stolen and legitimate properties under the name of Saad Rizvi have been confiscated. Investigations revealed the group’s extensive network of wealth accumulation through illicit means, allegedly collected under the guise of religious causes.
Authorities recovered one kilogram and 920 grams of gold, 898 grams of silver, and 28 gold bangles from the residence of a senior religious leader affiliated with TLP. Investigators also discovered anonymous property purchases near the group’s headquarters, raising further concerns about the sources of these funds.
Bokhari accused the organization of exploiting the Gaza and Palestine issue to incite violence and collect massive donations in the name of Islam. She described the practice as a gross manipulation of religious sentiment and a threat to national security.
Targeting of Politicians, Journalists, and Civil Institutions
During her detailed briefing, Uzma Bokhari alleged that TLP had established organized cells dedicated to threatening politicians and journalists who criticized their activities. These intimidation tactics, she said, were designed to silence dissent and spread fear.
She categorically denied rumors about grave relocations or mosque demolitions, clarifying that no religious sites are being removed or destroyed. However, she warned that using graves or religious spaces for fundraising or instigating unrest would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
The minister reiterated that freedom of religion does not include the right to exploit faith for political violence.
Government Takes Control of Mosques and Madrassas
As part of the Punjab Government TLP ban, all mosques and seminaries associated with TLP have been placed under state supervision. The Auqaf Department has already taken control of 330 mosques, while 223 madrassas have been geo-tagged for monitoring.
Six madrassas found to be constructed on government land will be reclaimed and reopened under the supervision of scholars from Ahl-e-Sunnat-wa-Jamaat, ensuring that religious education continues without political influence.
A special prosecution cell has also been established to pursue terrorism-related cases against TLP leaders and activists. This cell will work in coordination with intelligence and law enforcement agencies to ensure swift justice.
TLP Violence and Propaganda Networks
Azma Bokhari shared alarming figures from recent TLP-led protests, which resulted in three civilian deaths, 110 injured police personnel, and 48 wounded civilians. She accused the group of spreading false propaganda by using dead bodies to fuel outrage and mislead the public.
According to official data, 3,800 individuals were regularly funding the group, and all such accounts have now been frozen. Anyone attempting to finance the organization in the future will face terrorism-related FIRs.
The government is also targeting TLP’s digital propaganda network, which allegedly promotes hate speech and anti-state narratives. Thirty-three individuals have already been named in terrorism-related investigations and are expected to be arrested soon.
Violent Incidents and Misuse of Public Resources
The Punjab Government TLP ban followed a series of violent incidents attributed to the group. Azma Bokhari revealed that during unrest in Muridke, TLP activists seized eight police vans, stole weapons, and attacked law enforcement personnel. They also allegedly confiscated vehicles belonging to Rescue 1122 and Stahra Punjab, obstructing emergency services.
The minister described the organization as having a three-tier leadership structure, coordinating both street-level violence and online propaganda. She condemned the misuse of religious symbolism to justify criminal activity and reaffirmed that such behavior would face zero tolerance.
Coordination with Federal Government and Law Enforcement Expansion
Bokhari announced that the Punjab government has formally requested the federal government to impose a nationwide ban on TLP, designating it as a proscribed extremist outfit. She expressed hope that the federal authorities would soon approve the measure, strengthening Pakistan’s internal security framework.
In the meantime, the provincial administration has intensified its policing efforts. Chief Minister Punjab has inaugurated 33 mobile police stations, including seven women-staffed “pink” units, to enhance community policing and ensure quick response in areas vulnerable to unrest.
Commitment to Peace and Rule of Law
The Punjab Government TLP ban is part of a broader effort to promote peace, curb extremism, and restore order. Azma Bokhari emphasized that the state’s actions are not against religion, but against those who exploit it for personal or political agendas.
She reaffirmed the government’s resolve to protect citizens, religious freedom, and Pakistan’s constitutional integrity. “No one will be allowed to destabilize the country or misuse religion for violence,” she said.
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