‘No leniency to be shown to those disrupting law, order’

LAHORE: Provincial Minister and Co-Chairman Bilal Yaseen stated that no leniency would be shown to those disrupting law and order, adding that protecting the lives and property of the public is the Punjab government’s top priority. He said this while addressing the 60th meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Law and Order held at the Punjab Home Department. The meeting was attended by Provincial Minister and Committee Chairman Khawaja Salman Rafique, Provincial Minister and Co-Chairman Bilal Yaseen, Provincial Minister Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani, and Special Assistant to the Chief Minister Rana Bilal Ahmed. The committee conducted a detailed review of the law and order situation across the province. Punjab Home Secretary Dr. Ahmed Javed Qazi briefed the committee on the prevailing law and order situation. The committee approved the formation of 4 Joint Investigation Teams (JITs) and authorized jail trials for 21 cases. Speaking on the occasion, Khawaja Salman Rafique stated that the law and order situation across the province was reviewed in accordance with the Chief Minister’s directives. He commended the efforts of law enforcement agencies in maintaining law and order and paid tribute to those who sacrificed their lives to protect the lives and property of the public. He emphasized that political and religious extremism on social media would not be tolerated under any circumstances. Provincial Minister Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani remarked that no activity endangering public life or property could be permitted, and he praised the performance of the Punjab Home Department and law enforcement agencies in maintaining peace. Speaking on the occasion, Rana Bilal Ahmed, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister of Punjab, stated that all resources are being utilized to maintain peace across the province. Law enforcement agencies are ensuring consistent security arrangements. Punjab Home Secretary Dr. Ahmed Javed Qazi noted that Section 144 remains in force throughout Punjab until October 5. There is a complete ban on the assembly of five or more people in public places, on processions, and on inciting others to participate in such gatherings. Carrying or displaying any type of weapon in public places is also strictly prohibited. Moreover, Inspector General of Police Punjab Abdul Kareem has issued orders that a close watch be kept on Fitna al-Khawarij, Fitna al-Hindustan and other anti-state elements, while the campaign for repatriation of illegally residing foreign nationals be expedited. He said that maintaining law & order and protecting the lives, properties and assets of citizens is the top priority of Punjab Police. IG Punjab directed all DPOs and senior police officers to remain in the field and personally review security arrangements. He ordered strict implementation of Section 144 and directed that no one be allowed to take the law into their own hands. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

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