Punjab’s new ordinance seeks 10 years’ jail, heavy fines for illegal property occupation

LAHORE: The Punjab government has introduced a new law to strengthen its crackdown on illegal property seizures, providing for harsher punishments, higher fines, and the establishment of district-level tribunals to ensure swift resolution.

The Punjab Protection of Ownership of Immovable Property (Amendment) Ordinance 2026 declares illegal occupation of property a punishable offence, with prison terms ranging from five to ten years, and fines of up to Rs10 million.

Five sections from the previous ordinance have been repealed to streamline enforcement.

Under the new law, each district will form a scrutiny committee led by the deputy commissioner, including the district police officer, adc revenue, assistant commissioner, and other officials.

The committee will summon parties involved, examine records, record statements, and attempt reconciliations. Any settlement will require a written agreement submitted to the tribunal for approval.

The ordinance expands the definition of “accused” to include companies, trusts, societies, institutions, and responsible officers such as directors, partners, and beneficial owners.

Fraud, forgery, coercion, or force used to seize property will now be treated as a criminal offence.

Aiding, facilitating, or conspiring in illegal occupation carries one to three years’ imprisonment and fines up to Rs1 million.

Property owners can file complaints directly with the relevant tribunal, providing proof of ownership, property details, and information about the accused.

Complaints must be forwarded to the scrutiny committee within three days, which is required to report to the tribunal within 30 days.

The tribunal has been granted wide powers, including issuing interim orders, regulating possession during proceedings, sealing property, granting or denying bail, and determining ownership.

It can also award compensation equal to the property’s value for illegal occupation, including any unlawful profits or construction benefits.

False or malicious complaints may lead to one to five years’ imprisonment and fines up to Rs500,000.

Tribunals must resolve cases within 30 days, hold daily hearings, and cannot adjourn for more than seven days. Pending cases can be transferred to the tribunal, which will continue proceedings from the stage of transfer.

Upon completion, the tribunal will issue a formal decree and order immediate restitution of property to the legal owner, with police and other agencies obliged to assist.

Appeals against final decisions can be filed in the Lahore High Court within 30 days; however, interim or review orders cannot be challenged.

Transactions, transfers, allotments, gifts, or leases of the property during proceedings will be considered invalid.

Government officials acting in good faith are provided legal protection.

Officials said the amendments aim to provide swift relief to rightful owners while cracking down on the illegal occupation mafia in Punjab, making the law more effective, comprehensive, and enforceable.