The Punjab government has expanded the scope and jurisdiction of defamation tribunals across the province, a move aimed at improving access to justice and ensuring early disposal of defamation cases, officials said Friday.
Under the new instructions, the powers of defamation tribunals in Lahore, Multan and Rawalpindi have been enhanced, allowing them to hear cases from a wider jurisdiction.
As a result, litigants will no longer be required to travel to distant cities to pursue defamation cases.
Authorities said that, for the first time, defamation cases will be heard at the divisional level, which is expected to significantly reduce delays and the burden on existing tribunals.
The expansion, officials added, will pave the way for faster decisions in defamation matters and make the legal process more accessible for citizens.
Formal instructions for the expansion of defamation tribunals have been issued, and the new mechanism is expected to take effect immediately.
Reporter: Ali Ramay