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Punjab Introduces Law to Crack Down on Violent Protesters
Punjab govt proposes Police Order (Second Amendment) 2025 to penalize violent protesters and recover damages; Riot Management Unit to be established.
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by Muhammad Hashir
2025-12-15
Punjab Introduces Law to Crack Down on Violent Protesters

The Punjab government has moved to tackle violent protests with new legislation aimed at strengthening law enforcement and ensuring accountability. The Police Order (Second Amendment) Act 2025 has been presented in the Punjab Assembly, outlining strict measures against individuals involved in violent demonstrations.

The proposed bill calls for the establishment of a specialized Riot Management Unit, supervised by an officer of the rank of Additional Inspector General. The unit will be equipped with modern tools and officers will receive training to handle illegal protests efficiently.

Under the bill, District Deputy Commissioners (DCs) will determine illegal riot zones and instruct the concerned police chiefs accordingly. These zones may then be cordoned off for effective management. The Incident Commander of the Riot Management Unit, typically an in-charge police station officer, will have operational authority in such zones, and legal immunity will be provided to the officers performing their duties.

The legislation also stipulates that individuals involved in violent protests will be liable to compensate for damages to public and private property as well as loss of life. Compensation amounts will be determined by trial courts with assistance from the Home Department, and decisions can be challenged before a two-member High Court bench.

The bill further allows for the appointment of officers to the Law Management Unit, and it has been referred to the relevant assembly committee. Following the committee’s approval, the bill will be presented for final approval by the Punjab Assembly and the Governor of Punjab.

If enacted, the law is expected to provide a structured response to violent protests and enhance accountability for damages incurred during unrest.
Tagged:

LawAndOrder

PunjabAssembly

PoliceOrder2025

RiotManagement
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