LAHORE; The Punjab Home Department has prepared the draft of thePunjab Control of Goonda Act 2025.
According to a spokesperson for the Punjab Home Department, the act clearly defines the legal identity of goons and criminals.Under the act, the District Intelligence Committee will have the authority to declare any individual as a “goonda” (hardened criminal or thug). Action can be initiated based on reports or written complaints from the police, administration, or intelligence agencies.
Individuals involved in drug trafficking, gambling, extortion, cybercrime, harassment, impersonating government officials, displaying weapons on social media, or using forged documents may be declared as goondas.The bank accounts of such individuals can be frozen, and their weapon licenses can be canceled. In addition, their names can be placed on the no-fly list, and their national identity cards and passports can be blocked.
For a first offense, the punishment may range from 3 to 5 years of imprisonment and a fine of up to Rs. 1.5 million. In case of repeat offenses, the punishment can extend up to 7 years in prison and a fine of up to Rs. 2 million.
