Punjab Government Enforces Defamation Law via Gazette Notification
LAHORE: The Punjab government has officially enacted the defamation law by issuing a gazette notification.
Under this law, individuals can send notices of damages up to Rs 30 lakh before the trial process begins. Acting Governor Punjab Malik Ahmad Khan signed the bill into law recently, and with the gazette notification, the defamation law will be immediately enforced in Punjab.
Despite opposition and protests from journalistic organizations, the Defamation Bill 2024 was passed in the Provincial Assembly. The law extends beyond traditional media outlets to include social media platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, and Instagram, subjecting violators to fines.
Tribunals will be established to hear cases, with a mandate to reach decisions within 180 days. High court benches will handle cases involving individuals appointed to constitutional positions, ensuring swift and fair adjudication.
