The government of Punjab has introduced two new ordinances to reform land management and strengthen property rights in the province, focusing on digitization and tougher penalties for illegal occupation. The Punjab Land Revenue Amendment Ordinance 2026 emphasizes the digitization of land records and improved transparency in property matters. Land transfers will now be fully processed through an e-registration system, while patwaris will be restricted to handling only inheritance-related transfers. The ordinance also establishes electronic procedures for issuing summons, notices, and public announcements, and reforms the appeals and case review processes. A legal framework has been set for land demarcation and the eviction of illegal occupants.
The Immovable Property Ownership Protection Amendment Ordinance 2026 replaces the previous dispute resolution committee with a new scrutiny committee composed of senior administrative and police officials, including the deputy commissioner and district police officer. It introduces stricter punishments for illegal land occupation, with prison terms ranging from five to ten years and fines of up to Rs. 10 million. Filing false complaints can lead to up to five years in prison and fines of Rs. 500,000. The ordinance also strengthens the tribunal system, appointing serving additional session judges as members and mandating that cases be decided within 30 days, a significant reduction from the earlier 90-day timeline.
These ordinances aim to modernize land administration, enhance operational efficiency, and provide stronger legal protection for property owners throughout Punjab.
