Punjab Property Protection Law 2025 | New Ordinance Against Illegal Possession in Punjab

Punjab Takes Strong Action to Protect Property Owners

The Punjab government has taken a major step to secure property rights by introducing the Punjab Protection of Ownership of Immovable Property Ordinance 2025. This new law aims to safeguard lawful property owners while ensuring fast action against illegal possession, fraud, and land grabbing across the province.

Immediate Implementation Across Punjab

The ordinance took effect immediately after being promulgated under Article 128 of the Constitution of Pakistan. The Governor of Punjab approved the law, citing urgent circumstances that required swift action while the provincial assembly was not in session.

Tough Penalties for Illegal Occupation

Under this law, occupying or retaining any immovable property without lawful authority — or through fraud, coercion, or deceit — is now a criminal offence. Violators can face rigorous imprisonment from five to ten years. Those assisting or facilitating such acts may be jailed for one to three years and fined up to Rs1 million. The ordinance also holds company directors, society heads, and partners accountable unless they can prove they acted with due diligence.

New Dispute Resolution Committees in Every District

To ensure swift justice, a Dispute Resolution Committee (DRC) will be formed in every district. Chaired by the Deputy Commissioner, it will include senior police and administrative officers. The DRC will have powers similar to a civil court — including summoning individuals, reviewing property documents, and taking protective measures for lawful owners. Complaints must be decided within 90 days, extendable once with approval from the divisional commissioner.

Establishment of Dedicated Property Tribunals

If the DRC fails to resolve the issue, the case will move to a Property Tribunal. Each district will have its own tribunal, headed by a former High Court or District Judge appointed by the Chief Justice of the Lahore High Court for a three-year term. These tribunals will handle all criminal and civil cases related to property disputes, working as both civil and sessions courts. All proceedings must be concluded within 90 days, ensuring fast-track justice for property owners.

Strongest Legal Framework Yet Against Land Grabbing

This new law overrides all previous regulations concerning land possession and property disputes. It establishes one of the most powerful legal mechanisms Punjab has ever implemented to tackle land grabbing and illegal occupation. By introducing strict penalties and faster legal processes, the government aims to restore public confidence and ensure that rightful owners remain protected.

What It Means for Property Owners

• Immediate protection against illegal possession and fraudulent transfers

• District-level Dispute Resolution Committees for faster complaint handling

• Dedicated tribunals to ensure day-to-day case hearings

• Heavy penalties for land grabbers, including imprisonment and fines

• Legal accountability for companies and housing societies involved in unlawful occupation

Final Takeaway

The Punjab Property Protection Law 2025 is a bold step toward ending decades of unchecked land grabbing and property fraud. With the introduction of DRCs and specialized tribunals, the province is ensuring that lawful owners have faster, fairer, and more effective protection for their property rights.

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