Despite a ban imposed on the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), the radical outfit remains listed as a political party with the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP).

According to a notification issued by the ministry on Friday, the federal government declared the party proscribed under Section 11(b), sub-section 1(a) of the Anti-Terrorism Act after it reached the decision that the TLP was involved in terrorist activities.

The decision came after approval from the federal cabinet, following a recommendation by the Punjab government after the violent TLP protest in Muridke on October 13, which resulted in the death of police personnel.

Interior Ministry officials clarified that the ban has been imposed under the Anti-Terrorism Act, not under Article 17 of the Constitution. Therefore, no reference has been filed in the Supreme Court regarding the ban.

Interestingly, TLP continues to appear in the ECP’s list of registered political parties.

According to ECP sources, a political party can only be formally banned under Article 17 of the Constitution, which is implemented via Section 212 of the Election Act.

Since TLP’s ban falls under the Anti-Terrorism Act, the party remains politically registered with the Election Commission and is eligible to participate in general elections under current law.

The sources added that the ECP will hold detailed consultations on Monday to determine the next course of action regarding the party’s status and participation in elections.