- Decision taken at fourth extraordinary law and order meeting chaired by CM Maryam Nawaz
- CM says reforms aim to reinforce state writ and public safety across Punjab
- ‘Surrender of Illegal Arms Act 2025’ to be launched in three phases, one million licensed weapons to undergo fresh scrutiny
LAHORE: The Punjab government has decided to introduce new legislation on drone policing, coordinated security, and arms regulation as part of its broader efforts to strengthen the writ of the state and modernize law enforcement mechanisms across the province.
The decision was made during the fourth extraordinary meeting on law and order, chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz in Lahore on Friday. The session reviewed existing security frameworks and proposed sweeping reforms to curb the proliferation of illegal arms and enhance surveillance capabilities.
Officials briefed the meeting that Punjab currently has around one million licensed arms, all of which will now undergo fresh scrutiny under the new regulatory plan. The chief minister approved the introduction of the Punjab Surrender of Illegal Arms Act, 2025, to be implemented in three phases.
Under the Act, individuals possessing illegal weapons will be required to surrender them within 15 days, after which the arms will be destroyed under government supervision. The law will also strengthen the enforcement of arms-related regulations and ensure stricter penalties for violations.
CM Maryam Nawaz emphasized that the new measures were aimed at ensuring public safety and restoring full state authority. “Our goal is to establish a secure, peaceful Punjab where the rule of law is non-negotiable,” she said, directing authorities to accelerate the legislative process and coordinate closely with law enforcement agencies for implementation.
Message on World Development Information Day
Separately, in her message on World Development Information Day, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz reaffirmed the Punjab government’s commitment to sustainable development, transparency, and effective public communication.
She said that growing public awareness about the need for development was an encouraging sign, adding that Punjab had entered a “new era of swift and modern progress.”
Highlighting key initiatives, she noted that for the first time in Punjab’s history, the construction, renovation, and rehabilitation of 3,000 healthcare centres and hospitals had set a record, while the repair and construction of over 20,000 roads in a short span reflected the government’s “unprecedented pace of progress.”
CM Maryam Nawaz cited flagship programs such as ‘Suthra Punjab,’ ‘1100 Electric Buses,’ and ‘Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar’ as prime examples of development-oriented governance. She stressed that access to quality healthcare, education, and modern transport was central to achieving the province’s broader growth goals.
Appreciating the Information Department for promoting awareness and communicating the government’s agenda effectively, she concluded, “By empowering people with knowledge, we are building the foundation for inclusive growth and lasting prosperity across Punjab.”
