LAHORE: The Punjab government has prepared draft legislation to criminalise secret filming, stalking, cyber bullying, online blackmail, and digital extortion under a new legal framework. The proposed law aims to address emerging forms of crime that have expanded with the growth of digital technology.
The draft legislation, titled the Punjab Control of Habitual Offenders and Anti-Social Behavior Act 2026, seeks to replace the decades-old Control of Goondas Act. Officials believe the existing law is outdated and no longer provides adequate legal tools to tackle modern criminal activities, particularly those committed through digital platforms.
According to officials, the proposed law introduces stronger legal measures to deal with habitual offenders and individuals involved in anti-social behaviour. It also expands the scope of punishable offences to include online harassment, cyber bullying, digital extortion, and other technology-related crimes.
Furthermore, the legislation aims to strengthen law enforcement’s ability to respond to evolving criminal tactics. Authorities say the current legal framework does not effectively address offences involving social media, electronic communication, and other digital technologies.
The proposed act reflects the government’s efforts to modernise provincial laws in response to the increasing use of online platforms for harassment, intimidation, and financial exploitation. Officials believe updated legislation will provide better protection for victims while enhancing the capacity of law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute offenders.
The draft law is expected to undergo further legal review before being presented to the provincial legislature for consideration. If approved, it will replace the existing Control of Goondas Act and establish a new legal framework designed to address both traditional and technology-driven crimes across Punjab.
