TLP files appeal against ban imposed by PTI govt

ISLAMABAD: The religious and political party Tehreek e Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) on Thursday filed an appeal against the ban imposed by the Pakistan Tehreek e Insaf (PTI) government.

The ruling party had earlier this month banned the TLP allegedly for creating anarchy across the country after the government arrested the latter’s chief Saad Rizvi. The TLP was planning to march towards Islamabad after the government did not show interest in fulfilling its promise which was made to the party during its protest earlier.

The appeal has been filed with the Interior Ministry seeking to unban the TLP. The party said that it was registered at the Election Commission of Pakistan and it had nothing to do with terrorism.

On the other hand, the interior ministry has summoned a special meeting on Apr 30 (tomorrow) to hold hearing on the appeal. Sources said that Secretary for Interior Naseem Khokhar will preside over the review meeting.

On Apr 14, Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed had said that the TLP was banned under Anti-terrorism Act 1997 (11) B. “Two policemen have been martyred and 340 others have suffered injuries at the hands of the TLP protestors,” he had said while addressing media in Islamabad.

On Apr 16, Prime Minister Imran Khan had said the government took action against the Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan (TLP) under anti-terrorism law when it challenged the writ of the state and used street violence.

“The TLP attacked the public and the law enforcers. No one can be above the law and the constitution,” he had tweeted.