The Punjab government has taken a significant step towards tackling gang-related crimes and anti-social behavior by drafting the “Punjab Control of Gangsters Act.” This proposed legislation aims to provide a framework for law enforcement agencies to deal with gangsters and curb their activities. According to the draft, a gangster is defined as a person involved in criminal activity, anti-social behavior, or posing a threat to public order.
The District Intelligence Committee (DIC) has been given the authority to declare any person a gangster based on reports or complaints from the police, administration, and sensitive agencies. This committee can take action against individuals involved in drug trafficking, gambling, extortion, or harassment. Once declared a gangster, the individual can face severe consequences, including being placed on the no-fly list, blocked identity card and passport, frozen bank accounts, and canceled arms licenses.
The draft also proposes digital monitoring and biometric data collection to keep track of gangsters. Those who violate the orders of the DIC can face imprisonment for 3 to 5 years and a fine of up to Rs 1.5 million. Repeat offenders can expect even harsher penalties, including imprisonment for up to 7 years and a fine of up to Rs 2 million.
The affected person can appeal to the divisional, provincial, or appeal committees, and a tribunal headed by a retired District and Sessions Judge will hear the appeal. This ensures that the accused has a chance to defend themselves and challenge the declaration.
The proposed legislation is a welcome step towards maintaining law and order in Punjab. Gang-related crimes can have a devastating impact on communities, and it is essential to take strong measures to curb such activities. The Punjab government has recognized the need to address this issue and has taken a proactive approach by drafting this legislation.
The “Punjab Control of Gangsters Act” has the potential to be an effective tool in the fight against crime. By providing a clear definition of a gangster and outlining the consequences for such individuals, the law can help to deter people from engaging in anti-social behavior. The authority given to the DIC to declare gangsters and the penalties for violating the orders of the DIC can help to disrupt the operations of gangs and bring perpetrators to justice.
However, it is crucial to ensure that the law is implemented in a fair and transparent manner. The rights of the accused must be protected, and the appeal process must be robust to prevent any miscarriage of justice. The Punjab government must also ensure that the law enforcement agencies are trained to implement the law effectively and without bias.
Overall, the “Punjab Control of Gangsters Act” is a significant step towards maintaining law and order in the province. If implemented effectively, it can help to reduce crime and improve the safety and security of citizens. The Punjab government must work towards ensuring that the law is enforced in a fair and transparent manner, and the rights of all individuals are protected.
