The Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has approved a series of sweeping measures to strengthen law and order, enforce the rule of law, and curb extremism, corruption, and illegal residency across the province. Chairing the third extraordinary meeting on the law and order situation, the chief minister said the province will not tolerate extremist activities, illegal arms, or corruption networks that undermine peace and public safety.

According to the official statement, the government has decided to strictly implement the Loudspeaker Act, and establish whistleblower cells in every district. Citizens have been urged to report extremist groups or illegal foreign residents by calling the Punjab Police Helpline 15, where a special call center has been set up to receive such information. The meeting also decided to intensify the campaign against illegal weapons and make peace committees more active and effective.

These committees will be kept fully engaged in all ongoing operations across the province. In line with the vision of a state at the doorstep of the people, the Punjab government will expand the role of mobile police stations, bringing law enforcement services directly to citizens. The government clarified that combing operations target only extremist elements, not any sect or faith.

All district administrations have been instructed to submit daily reports on actions against illegal foreign residents including details of those engaged in business, brought into the tax net, or shifted to deportation centres. Furthermore, the Punjab government has banned advertisements, posters, and placards of extremist organisations. Strict action will also be taken against those who rent out properties to illegal residents, under the Tenancy and Passport Acts.

A zero-tolerance policy has been enforced against hate speech and incitement on social media. Offenders spreading hateful or extremist content online will face cases under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz reaffirmed that these decisions mark a historic step toward restoring the writ of the state, ensuring that peace, tolerance, and lawful conduct prevail across Punjab.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)