The Punjab government has appointed special public prosecutors to represent the state in terrorism cases registered against Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) in the Lahore and Sheikhupura districts. This move comes after a major law enforcement operation on Monday to dismantle TLP’s protest camp in Muridke, which led to violence and mass arrests.
According to official figures, a total of 2,716 individuals were arrested during the operation. Of these, 251 were detained by Lahore police and 178 by Sheikhupura police.
In a notification issued by Punjab’s Public Prosecution Department, Supreme Court Advocate Rana Shakeel Ahmed Khan and High Court Advocate Chaudhry Khalid Rasheed have been appointed as special prosecutors for all TLP-related cases in their respective jurisdictions. These appointments have been made under Section 18 of the Anti-Terrorism Act, which authorizes the government to assign public prosecutors or legal officers for anti-terrorism courts, High Courts, or the Supreme Court.
These special prosecutors will work closely with investigation officers to prepare case files, represent the state in trial courts for remands, bail hearings, and trials, and also appear in the Lahore High Court for bail petitions, appeals, and other relevant proceedings.
This action is part of the government’s broader effort to neutralize TLP’s growing influence, following discussions in key meetings about the group’s record of violent attacks on law enforcement and vandalism of places of worship belonging to non-Muslim communities.
In addition, a money laundering investigation has been launched against the TLP chief after over Rs. 110 million in cash, including Rs. 50,000 in Indian currency, was reportedly recovered from his residence.
Speaking to Geo News, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry said that since the formation of the current government, TLP has twice attempted to march toward Islamabad.
He explained that during both marches, the government signed agreements with TLP, many of which had unfavourable terms for the state. However, he emphasized that the government has now adopted a firm stance.
“We must move forward and learn from past mistakes. No more blackmailing will be tolerated,” he stated.
The minister made it clear that there will be no tolerance for extremism or violence in politics — whether it’s related to the events of May 9, November 26, or TLP’s sit-ins. He said similar action will be taken against all such elements.
He also claimed that all peaceful options had been exhausted before taking action against TLP. While TLP denies any negotiations, Chaudhry said backdoor talks were held, and a senior Pakistani religious and political leader was involved in trying to mediate. However, TLP’s behaviour embarrassed him. He added that the group was given a peaceful exit option, and women and children who were arrested have already been released.
