RAWALPINDI (HRNW)- The Government of Punjab is preparing to crack down on criminal elements across the province with the introduction of a strict new anti-hooliganism and extortion law. Approved by the Standing Committee on Home Affairs, The Punjab Control of Habitual Offenders and Anti-Social Behavior Bill 2026 is set to replace the outdated Hooliganism Act of 1959.<\/p>\n
The proposed legislation introduces heavy penalties and modern enforcement tools to tighten the net around criminals:<\/p>\n
Imprisonment & Fines: First-time offenders face 3 to 5 years in prison. Habitual offenders could face up to 7 years in prison alongside a fine of up to Rs. 2 million.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Financial & Digital Crackdown: In a major blow to criminal operations, the law allows authorities to block the national identity cards (CNICs) and freeze the bank accounts of designated hooligans.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Social Media & Public Safety: Flaunting weapons on social media and aerial firing have officially been brought under the scope of this law.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Police Empowerment: Law enforcement will receive expanded powers to digitally monitor accused individuals and collect their biometric data.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
The bill will immediately take effect across the province once it receives final approval from the Punjab Assembly.<\/p>\n
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