Warns certain groups against taking law into their own hands
Saifullah Ansar
ISLAMABAD, OCT 21 /DNA/ – Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif on Tuesday said he was not aware of any formal ban on Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), but warned that the government would not allow any group to take the law into its own hands. “I do not know of any ban on the TLP,” he told reporters, adding that “nobody will be allowed to take the law in their hands.”
Asif emphasised that the state would not tolerate attempts to “blackmail” the government through street agitation or coercion, saying Pakistan “cannot afford such adventures” that threaten public order and national stability. He said organisations resembling the TLP should not be permitted to “play with the law of the land and innocent people,” and cautioned that authorities would act decisively to protect citizens and uphold the rule of law.
The remarks came amid heightened tensions after deadly clashes and nationwide protests linked to hard-line groups, prompting provincial authorities to consider measures against organisations accused of staging violent demonstrations. Punjab authorities have in recent days moved to declare extremist elements and recommended federal measures amid a broader crackdown on violent protests.
Government officials, while stressing respect for lawful political activity, have repeatedly warned that violent agitation and attempts to coerce the state would be met with legal action. Analysts say Islamabad is seeking to balance maintaining public order with avoiding a wider security escalation, as authorities face pressure to prevent future unrest and protect innocent civilians.
Police and paramilitary forces remain on alert in major cities, and the interior ministry has reiterated that any illegal marches or attempts to impose demands through force will be stopped in accordance with the law. The government says it prefers dialogue but will not hesitate to use legal avenues to ensure peace and stability.
