Lahore, October 18, 2025:
The Punjab government has taken a firmer stance against the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) following the group’s nationwide strike that largely failed to gain public traction. Despite calls for shutdowns, most major cities across Punjab, including Lahore, Faisalabad, and Multan, remained largely unaffected, with normal business and transport operations continuing throughout the day.
🚫 Strike Fails to Gain Momentum
TLP had called for a province-wide strike to protest alleged government actions against its members and demand the release of detained activists. However, turnout was minimal, with only scattered demonstrations reported in parts of Gujranwala and Sialkot.
Police officials confirmed that no major incidents of violence or unrest were reported. Shops, schools, and offices remained open, while public transport services operated as usual — signaling a significant decline in TLP’s street influence compared to past protests.
“The people have rejected politics of disruption and violence,” said Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari, commending citizens for maintaining peace.
🛡️ Government’s Firm Response
In a statement, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif reiterated that the government will not allow any group to disrupt public order or exploit religion for political gain.
Security forces were placed on high alert, with police and Rangers deployed in sensitive areas across Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Faisalabad.
“The writ of the state will be upheld at all costs,” the Chief Minister asserted, adding that intelligence agencies had been monitoring TLP’s activities closely.
Officials confirmed that several TLP local leaders were detained as a preventive measure before the planned protests, ensuring that the situation remained under control.
⚙️ Declining Public Support
Analysts say TLP’s failure to mobilize large crowds reflects waning public support amid fatigue from repeated shutdown calls and concerns over economic stability.
“The country’s current focus is on jobs, inflation, and governance — not religious agitation,” said political analyst Dr. Hassan Askari Rizvi.
Public opinion has increasingly favored stability over street protests, particularly as Punjab continues to recover from recent economic and security challenges.
🗣️ TLP’s Reaction
In a brief statement, TLP leaders accused the government of “silencing dissent” and vowed to continue their “peaceful struggle” for religious reforms. However, the group did not announce any further protest plans at this time.
Observers note that the movement, once capable of paralyzing major cities, is losing momentum due to stronger law enforcement measures and declining ideological appeal among the masses.
📊 What’s Next
The Punjab government has hinted at introducing new legal measures to curb extremist mobilization and strengthen public order laws. Meanwhile, normalcy has fully returned to most areas, and authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant but calm.
❓ FAQs: Punjab and TLP Strike 2025
1. What was the TLP strike about?
The strike was called to protest government actions against TLP activists and to demand their release.
2. Did the strike affect normal life?
No major disruption occurred — most cities in Punjab functioned normally.
3. What action did the Punjab government take?
Authorities detained several TLP leaders and deployed police to maintain order.
4. Is TLP losing its political influence?
Analysts suggest that public support for TLP has declined due to economic concerns and stricter state responses.
5. What happens next?
The government is expected to introduce new policies to counter extremist mobilization in the province.
