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From mobile police stations to bans on hate content — the province ramps up control measures.
LAHORE: In a renewed push to uphold the rule of law, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Wednesday chaired a high-level meeting that set out a firm course to stamp out extremism, tighten law enforcement, and reassert the state’s writ across the province.
The meeting, called to take stock of the security situation, gave the go-ahead for strict action against anyone taking up arms against the state. Officials were told to draw up concrete strategies to keep law and order intact and safeguard public safety.
Key steps include strict implementation of the Loudspeaker Act and the rollout of whistle-blower cells in every district to help citizens report extremist or suspicious activity. A dedicated unit within the Punjab Police Helpline 15 will also deal with tips on extremist outfits and illegal foreign residents, urging people to come forward with credible information.
The government has vowed to step up operations against illegal weapons, corruption, and mafia networks while rooting out loopholes that undermine transparency. Peace committees will be brought back to life to engage communities in maintaining order, while mobile police stations will be sent out to reach citizens at their doorsteps.
Maryam Nawaz made it clear that the crackdown is not meant to single out any sect but to weed out extremism in all its forms. District authorities have been told to send in daily reports on deportations, tax compliance, and actions against illegal residents.
A ban has been slapped on posters and ads promoting banned outfits, while landlords renting out properties to illegal residents will be dealt with under tenancy and passport laws. Those fanning hate or incitement online will be booked under PECA.
The measures aim to lay down the foundations of lasting peace and bring back citizens’ trust in the supremacy of law.
