The Punjab government has taken a major step to safeguard destitute, orphaned and special children by tightening laws against abuse, negligence and exploitation. The Provincial Assembly’s Standing Committee on Home Affairs has approved the Punjab Destitute and Neglected Children (Amendment) Bill 2025, paving the way for stronger legal protection.
According to the bill, the legal framework for child protection will be reinforced through enhanced punishments and more effective enforcement mechanisms. The amendments aim to eliminate loopholes, update provisions to modern needs and ensure swift legal action in cases involving vulnerable children.
The bill introduces significant changes to multiple sections of the 2004 law, including Sections 6, 34, 36, 36-A, 36-B, 37 and 38. One key feature is the replacement of the word “and” with “or,” with the addition of the clause “or with both” to broaden judicial discretion in awarding penalties. Lawmakers say this linguistic revision will allow courts to impose multiple punishments where needed.
The committee has also removed sub-clause (4) of Section 6 and made new insertions to align the legislation with present-day social and legal requirements. Officials said the amendment bill will improve accountability within child welfare institutions and enhance the overall performance of agencies responsible for child care and protection.
Once approved by the Punjab Assembly, the law will be enforced immediately. It is expected to usher in a new legal regime for child protection in the province by ensuring stricter implementation, greater clarity in prosecution and stronger guarantees for children’s fundamental rights.
Committee members said the revised law will provide a robust safety net for neglected children and victims of abuse, enabling authorities to take decisive action. They noted that the bill marks a critical shift toward social justice and reinforced legal protection for Punjab’s most vulnerable children.
Punjab government should establish institutions ,to provide shelter and basic education UpTo 8th,along with technical training for two years.