Asia Bibi case highlights rise of hardline TLP

The

Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan party (TLP) has become one of Pakistan’s most powerful groups, paralysing the nation with violent protests.

Led by firebrand cleric Khadim Hussain Rizvi, the TLP flexed its muscles again last week when, hours after the Supreme Court quashed the blasphemy conviction of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman, its followers flooded the streets. Fears of the TLP stem from the group’s rising popularity in the country’s Punjab heartland and they force their will on governments with little or no official backlash. (AFP)