Punjab Govt Enforces Loudspeaker Act and Cracks Down on Hate Speech

LAHORE: Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has reiterated her government’s commitment to maintaining peace and harmony across Punjab, declaring that “Punjab will remain a cradle of peace, not a base of chaos.”

Chairing the seventh consecutive special meeting on law and order, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz approved a series of stringent and urgent reforms to strengthen public safety and interfaith unity.

A major decision also included strict implementation of the Loudspeaker Act, which will now be monitored through CCTV cameras and digital systems. The provincial government said that any attempt to use loudspeakers for hate speeches or incitement would be met with immediate legal action.

Officials clarified that there is no ban on mosques for Friday sermons or daily call to prayer (Azan). However, no business, political group, or individual is allowed to use loudspeakers for any unauthorised purpose.

In a progressive move, the Punjab government has started digital mapping of all mosques to ensure transparency in the distribution of stipends for over 65,000 imams. The government will also renovate mosques, improve the sanitation system and provide all missing facilities to places of worship.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz appreciated the cooperation of citizens who voluntarily surrendered illegal weapons and stressed that strict action would be taken against those hiding weapons without a licence.

The meeting also focused on hateful content on social media, with the government announcing the implementation of the PECA Act against those spreading fake news or hate propaganda online. Special monitoring units have already been activated to track and take action against digital hateful content.

The Punjab government has further warned that strict punishments will be given to those who help foreigners illegally residing in the province.