Tahir Maqsood Cheena
The Punjab government recently released a list of 84 ‘banned outfits,’ warning the public that donating to these groups is a criminal offense punishable under Pakistan’s Anti-Terrorism Act of 1997. This list closely mirrors the inventory of proscribed groups maintained by the National Counter Terrorism Authority (Nacta). While the move aims to curb terrorist financing, it raises a more critical question: why do so many of these banned groups still exist, and why are they allowed to operate with apparent impunity?
The stated rationale behind the Punjab administration’s initiative is to prevent people from unintentionally supporting terrorist groups through zakat and charitable donations, especially during the holy month of Ramazan when giving is widespread. The intention is admirable—ensuring that people’s charity doesn’t end up funding violence and extremism. However, the fact that a long list of banned groups still exists and operates freely suggests a failure in the broader strategy of counterterrorism.
Many of the groups on this list are not only still active but have also adapted by rebranding themselves under different names. This tactic has been employed for years, dating back to the Musharraf era, and raises questions about the effectiveness of the state’s counterterrorism policies. Banning an organization is one thing, but dismantling it entirely and ensuring it no longer operates is a different challenge altogether. Unfortunately, the state’s actions appear to be more symbolic than effective in dealing with the root causes of militancy.
Moreover, there is a deep inconsistency in the application of state policies regarding banned groups. While sectarian and militant organizations are officially banned, many of them continue to organize rallies and operate freely in Pakistan’s cities. For instance, groups like those linked to the Lal Masjid in Islamabad have not only managed to evade serious legal consequences but have been treated with a degree of leniency that raises alarms. Despite repeatedly threatening the state, these groups are often engaged in negotiations rather than facing strict legal action.
The disconnect between the state’s official stance and its actual enforcement on the ground further exacerbates the problem. If the government has already banned these groups, it logically follows that it must possess evidence of their involvement in terrorist activities. In a fair and just system, the leaders and financiers of such groups would be prosecuted and held accountable. While a few jihadist leaders have faced legal action, many others remain untouchable, free to continue their operations without fear of punishment.
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The government’s failure to follow through on its bans and take concrete action against the perpetrators of violence underscores a significant gap in Pakistan’s fight against terrorism. Until this issue is addressed, Pakistan will continue to face the paradox of banning groups on paper while allowing them to operate under new names and with renewed vigor. This systemic failure means that Pakistan’s counterterrorism efforts remain superficial, leaving the country vulnerable to continued extremism.
The solution to this ongoing crisis lies not only in banning terrorist groups but in a comprehensive strategy that goes beyond paper actions. There must be a concerted effort to dismantle these groups entirely, including prosecuting their leaders, cutting off their financing, and eradicating the ideological support they receive. The Pakistani state must also recognize the importance of promoting genuine moderation within society and launch long-term deradicalization campaigns that target the roots of extremism.
The battle against violent extremism is undoubtedly complex and will take years of sustained effort. However, addressing the systemic disconnect in the state’s approach to counterterrorism is a necessary first step. Until banned groups are truly neutralized and their operations dismantled, Pakistan will continue to face the dire consequences of militant violence, which has already claimed tens of thousands of civilian and security personnel lives.
In conclusion, while the release of the banned outfits list is a step in the right direction, it is ultimately inadequate without accompanying measures that ensure these groups are permanently disabled. Pakistan’s fight against terrorism must move beyond symbolic actions and towards meaningful prosecution, systemic enforcement, and long-term efforts to foster a more peaceful and secure society.
