Punjab introduces Immovable Property Ownership Protection Ordinance 2026
Scrutiny committee will include police and revenue officers which will complete the investigation within 30 days and submit a report to Property Tribunal
Punjab Government issues Immovable Property Ownership Protection Amendment Ordinance 2026 which will be applicable immediately in the entire province of Punjab including Lahore, reported 24NewsHD TV Channel.
Governor Punjab promulgates ordinance under Article 128 of the Constitution. According to the ordinance, illegal possession has been declared a punishable offence. Illegal possession will be punishable with a minimum of 5 years and a maximum of 10 years imprisonment.
A fine of up to Rs 10 million can also be imposed for illegal possession. Aiding, abetting or conspiring to commit possession will also be punishable. Those who help the land grabbers will be handed down imprisonment from one year to three years.
Under the ordinance, Punjab government has decided to establish special Punjab Property Tribunal in every district which will be led by an officer of the rank of Additional Sessions Judge.
In possession cases, complaints can be filed directly with the tribunal. The tribunal will seek a report from the scrutiny committee upon receiving the complaint. A scrutiny committee will be established in each district under the chairmanship of the Deputy Commissioner.
The scrutiny committee will also include police and revenue officers. The committee will complete the investigation within 30 days and submit a report to the tribunal. The tribunal will have the authority to terminate the possession and return the property to the original owner. The tribunal will also be able to order the police to recover possession.
According to the ordinance, possession cases will be decided within 30 days. The property cannot be sold or transferred during the possession case. The tribunal will also be able to seal the property by issuing an interim order. If the complaint is proven to be false, the complainant will also be punished. The tribunal will have the power to order the arrest of the accused.
The right to appeal against the decision of the tribunal has been granted. The appeal can be filed only in the Lahore High Court. The Lahore High Court will be bound to decide on the appeal within 30 days. The purpose of the ordinance has been declared to be immediate and effective action against the squatter mafia.