Punjab Assembly Discusses Land Grabbing Ordinance On February 24

The Punjab Assembly is set to address the Punjab Protection of Ownership of Immovable Property (Amendment) Ordinance 2026 on February 24, 2026, which aims to combat land grabbing and expedite property dispute resolutions. The ordinance, promulgated on February 17, introduces severe penalties for illegal property possession, including jail terms of up to 10 years and fines reaching Rs10 million. It establishes district-level Punjab Property Tribunals, presided over by additional sessions judges, tasked with resolving cases within 30 days. This ordinance is a response to the Lahore High Court's suspension of the previous law and aims to enhance protections for lawful property owners. "Any person who occupies property through illegal means will face a minimum of five years’ imprisonment," the ordinance states, highlighting the government's commitment to tackling property-related crimes. Additionally, the ordinance allows for compensation to lawful owners and nullifies any transactions involving disputed properties unless authorized by the tribunal.