Punjab government has amended drug laws to impose stricter punishments on offenders. Under the new ordinance, no bail will be allowed for cases with life imprisonment sentences. The law also requires courts to consider heavy bail amounts before granting bail in other cases. Additionally, the case nature will influence bail decisions to ensure justice is served.
Furthermore, appeals against special court rulings will now be heard by a two-member bench of Lahore High Court. The Chief Justice of Lahore High Court will appoint this bench. These changes aim to speed up drug case trials and remove legal delays that slow justice. This will strengthen the fight against drug crimes in Punjab.
Read more: CM orders random drug testing on HTV drivers amid rising accidents
The new law operates alongside the federal CNSA law to improve anti-drug enforcement in the province. Punjab’s Law Department stated that several sections, including 38, 39, 40, 41, and 44, have been revised. Some outdated clauses were repealed to tighten regulations further and close loopholes.
Key amendments include adding “special court” in Section 39 to make bail rules stricter. Section 40 now places appeals under the Lahore High Court’s two-member bench. Section 41’s sub-clause (2) was removed, and Section 44 was amended to make enforcement mandatory. These changes will speed up case hearings.
Read more: Singapore Cracks Down on Drug Vapes With Caning, Jail and Fines
Since the provincial assembly was not in session, the Punjab Governor approved the ordinance under Article 128. The amendments have been effective since September 20, 2025. The Law and Parliamentary Affairs Department officially published the ordinance in the government gazette.