Punjab government moves to strengthen counter-extremism body, grants autonomy to Centre of Excellence

In a major institutional reform aimed at strengthening efforts to curb violent extremism, the Punjab government has approved amendments to grant autonomous status to the Punjab Centre of Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism, enabling it to function with enhanced legal and administrative powers.

The decision was taken after the Standing Committee on Legislation and Privatization approved the relevant amendment bill, paving the way for significant structural changes in the institution’s mandate and operational framework.

According to official details, the amended legislation grants the institution permanent succession rights, a joint official seal, and expanded legal authority. Under the new framework, the centre will be able to acquire and transfer property, as well as file legal cases in its own name.

Officials said the move follows revisions made after objections raised by the Law Department, which led to amendments in the original Act 2025 before final approval.

The Home Department had earlier submitted a summary seeking formal autonomous status for the institution, arguing that greater independence was necessary to improve operational effectiveness in counter-extremism efforts.

The Finance Department Punjab also accorded in-principle approval to the proposal, subject to the condition that all operational expenses would be met from the existing provincial budget.

Government officials said the primary objective of the reform is to enhance the effectiveness of the province’s counter-extremism system by strengthening institutional capacity and decision-making autonomy.

They added that administrative independence is expected to improve coordination among relevant agencies and ensure more effective implementation of counter-extremism policies across Punjab.