Lahore (Web Desk): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz presided over an extraordinary meeting to review the province’s security and law and order situation, where a series of significant decisions were made.
A statement, released after the meeting avoided naming any particular organization, resolved that strict measures would be taken against individuals involved in spreading hate, inciting violence, or violating the law.
It added that those responsible for the martyrdom of police officers and destruction of property will face terrorism charges.
The provincial government also decided to place the leadership of an extremist group under the Fourth Schedule.
The group’s assets and properties will be transferred to the Auqaf Department, while all its posters, banners, and advertisements will be banned.
Furthermore, it was its bank accounts will be frozen, and social media accounts deactivated. The meeting also agreed to implement the Loudspeaker Act with full force and take stern action against any violations.
The government approved the inclusion of Afghan nationals in the tax net and announced a combing operation targeting illegally residing foreigners.
Additionally, decisive action will be taken against illegal weapons. Orders have been issued for their immediate recovery and inspection of arms dealers’ inventories.
Possession of unlicensed arms has been declared a non-bailable offense, carrying up to 14 years in prison and a fine of up to Rs2 million.
Citizens have been given one month to register licensed weapons at local service centres. Arms dealers will face inventory inspections, and the issuance of new licences will be temporarily halted.
The province has sought the federal government’s intervention to monitor and regulate arms manufacturing units and factories.