The government of Punjab has issued two new ordinances aimed at reforming land management and strengthening property rights in the province, introducing digital systems and stricter penalties for illegal occupation.
The Punjab Land Revenue Amendment Ordinance 2026 focuses on digitizing land records and improving transparency in property matters. Under the new law, land transfers will be fully digitized through an e-registration system, while patwaris will be limited to handling only inheritance-related transfers.
The ordinance also introduces electronic methods for issuing summons, notices, and public announcements, and reforms the process for appeals and case reviews. A legal framework has been outlined for land demarcation and eviction of illegal occupants.
The second law, the Immovable Property Ownership Protection Amendment Ordinance 2026, replaces the previous dispute resolution committee with a new scrutiny committee comprising senior administrative and police officials, including the deputy commissioner and district police officer.
The ordinance introduces stricter penalties for illegal land occupation, with punishments ranging from 5 to 10 years in prison and fines of up to Rs. 10 million. Filing false complaints can result in up to 5 years imprisonment and a Rs. 500,000 fine.
A tribunal system has also been strengthened, with serving additional session judges appointed as members. The tribunal will be required to decide cases within 30 days, significantly reducing the timeline from the previous 90 days.
The new ordinances aim to modernize land administration, improve efficiency, and provide stronger legal protection for property owners across the province.