The Punjab Assembly’s Revenue Committee has approved a bill introducing stricter penalties for property fraud and land grabbing, proposing special district committees and digitalisation of land records to better protect property owners.
The Standing Committee on Revenue of the Punjab Assembly has unanimously approved the Punjab Protection of Ownership of Immovable Property (Amendment) Bill 2026, aiming to intensify the crackdown on illegal land grabbing and property fraud in the province.
The committee meeting, chaired by Acting Chairperson MPA Chaudhry Mehmood Ahmed, was attended by officers from the Punjab Assembly and representatives of relevant government departments, according to sources. The proposed amendment introduces stricter penalties, including substantial fines and imprisonment, for individuals found guilty of engaging in qabza (illegal occupation) and fraudulent property transactions.
Officials stated that the bill is designed to provide stronger legal safeguards for land and property owners, specifically targeting those who occupy land illegally or use forged ownership documents. The revised legislation proposes enhanced punishments to serve as a deterrent against land grabbing and property-related fraud.
In addition to harsher penalties, the bill calls for the establishment of special committees at the district level to expedite the resolution of property disputes. These committees are expected to streamline the process and ensure quicker redressal for affected parties.
Furthermore, the amendment includes provisions for the digitalisation of land records. According to reports, this measure is intended to improve transparency and reduce the risk of document forgery in property transactions.
The committee’s approval marks a significant step in the legislative process, with the bill now set to move forward for further consideration. Officials emphasized that the proposed changes reflect a commitment to protecting the rights of property owners and addressing longstanding issues related to illegal land occupation and fraudulent dealings.