LAHORE (HRNW) – The Government of Punjab has issued an amendment ordinance to make legal action against illegal occupation of immovable property more stringent and effective. The primary goal of the law is to ensure the immediate and effective protection of property owners’ rights.
🔹 Punishment and Penalties
- Anyone who refuses to vacate illegal possession may be required to pay an amount equivalent to the current market value of the property.
- Illegal occupiers can face 5 to 10 years of imprisonment.
- Fines of up to PKR 10 million can be imposed.
- Individuals assisting in the illegal occupation are also liable for similar punishments and fines.
🔹 Tribunal and Administrative Committee
- A special tribunal will be established under the law.
- An administrative committee will be formed to conduct preliminary investigations, comprising the DC, DPO, AC, DCR, and other relevant officials.
- The committee will receive complaints regarding illegal occupation and prepare a report within 30 days.
- If both parties agree, the tribunal can issue a decision based on the committee’s report.
🔹 Powers of the Tribunal
- The tribunal can issue interim orders regarding any property.
- It can order the payment of compensation based on the property’s value.
- The tribunal is required to hear cases daily and deliver a decision within one month.
🔹 Jurisdiction and Appeals
- If a case is already pending in a court or tribunal, the complainant can transfer it to this tribunal.
- Appeals against the tribunal’s decisions can be filed in the Lahore High Court within 30 days.
- The law does not apply to cases already pending before the Constitutional Court, Supreme Court, or Lahore High Court.
🔹 Overall Legal Objective
This amendment ordinance is designed to ensure swift, strict, and effective action against illegal occupation mafias, providing immediate relief to property owners and reducing delays in the judicial process.
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