The Government of Pakistan has officially imposed a nationwide ban on Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), declaring the group a proscribed organization under the country’s Anti Terrorism Act. According to reports by, the Ministry of Interior issued a formal notification stating that the federal government possesses substantial evidence linking TLP to acts of terrorism and violent extremism.
The notification emphasizes that the group’s activities have repeatedly endangered public safety and disrupted law and order across the country. Based on this assessment, the Ministry of Interior has formally listed TLP as a banned organization, marking a major move against one of Pakistan’s most controversial religious political movements.
According to sources cited by The Observer, the Ministry of Law and the Office of the Attorney General have initiated legal proceedings to support the government’s decision. A reference is expected to be filed in the Supreme Court under clauses two and three of Article 17 of the Constitution, which pertain to the prohibition of political organizations involved in anti-state or violent activities. The government plans to present documented evidence of TLP’s involvement in acts that qualify as terrorism under Pakistani law.
Officials confirmed that the reference will be submitted to the Supreme Court soon. Once filed, the Court will review the matter through a trial-like process, examining evidence before making a final ruling on the permanent status of the ban.
Following the issuance of the notification, the Interior Ministry has sent copies of the decision to the Election Commission of Pakistan, all provincial governments, and district administrations. According to The Guardian, the Election Commission will now determine the political implications of the ban, which may include deregistering the party and barring its participation in future elections.
Provincial governments have been instructed to take immediate steps under the Fourth Schedule of Pakistan’s anti-terrorism laws. This includes freezing the group’s bank accounts, restricting its travel, and prohibiting public or social gatherings organized by TLP members or affiliates. Law enforcement agencies have also been directed to monitor the group’s activities closely to prevent any attempt at reorganization under a new name.
Government officials revealed that the decision follows approval from the federal cabinet, which met under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday evening. During the session, members were briefed on the history of the organization, which was founded in 2016 and has since been accused of inciting nationwide unrest. The cabinet was informed that previous TLP–led protests had resulted in the deaths of both law enforcement personnel and civilians.
The Guardian noted that this move reflects Islamabad’s growing resolve to curb extremist movements that threaten internal stability and international standing. The Observer added that the ban could have significant political repercussions, as TLP has previously mobilized large street demonstrations capable of disrupting national governance.
The Interior Ministry reiterated that the ban is part of Pakistan’s broader commitment to counterterrorism and the rule of law, aiming to ensure peace, public safety, and respect for constitutional order.
