Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Tuesday outlined the objectives of the Punjab Protection of Ownership of Immovable Property Act, 2025, a day after the Lahore High Court (LHC) issued an interim order suspending its implementation.
In a statement issued by the Chief Minister’s Office, Maryam Nawaz said the legislation was introduced to provide relief to citizens facing prolonged land and property disputes and to improve the pace of dispute resolution through a defined legal framework.
The law, approved on October 31, mandates the resolution of land and property disputes within a 90-day timeframe through dispute resolution committees headed by deputy commissioners. It was enacted following approval by the democratically elected Punjab Assembly.
The LHC suspended the operation of the law after it was challenged before the court. The chief minister noted that the legislation was designed to address longstanding delays in property-related cases, which often remain unresolved for years.
According to the statement, the chief minister said the law aimed to protect ordinary citizens, particularly those affected by prolonged litigation, by introducing time-bound mechanisms for dispute settlement. She said delays caused by extended stay orders had historically hindered access to timely justice for rightful property owners.
Maryam Nawaz emphasised that the legislation was enacted in the public interest and was not linked to any personal benefit. She said the intended beneficiaries of the law were citizens who have struggled with unresolved land disputes, including vulnerable segments of society.
The chief minister added that the provincial government respects the legal process and will proceed in accordance with the law as judicial review of the matter continues.
The Punjab Protection of Ownership of Immovable Property Act, 2025, remains suspended pending further proceedings before the Lahore High Court.
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