The Lahore High Court has temporarily halted the implementation of the Punjab Protection of Ownership of Immovable Property Ordinance, 2025, suspending both its enforcement and all actions taken under the law so far.
Chief Justice Aalia Neelum issued the interim order while hearing petitions challenging the ordinance, which empowers committees led by deputy commissioners to decide property-related disputes and order possession transfers. The court also put on hold decisions made under the law that resulted in people being dispossessed of their properties.
During the proceedings, the chief justice expressed serious reservations about the ordinance, questioning how revenue officials could be allowed to rule on disputes that are already pending before civil courts. She observed that the law appears to weaken the civil justice framework and interfere with judicial authority and individual rights.
Justice Neelum further noted that the ordinance does not provide affected parties with a clear right of appeal and also limits the high court’s ability to issue stay orders.
The Punjab chief secretary and other senior officials were present during the hearing, while the advocate general did not attend, citing health reasons. The chief justice remarked that despite her own health concerns, she chose to preside over the case.
The court announced that a full bench would be constituted to further examine the matter and adjourned the proceedings.
The ordinance, approved by the Punjab cabinet on October 31, mandates that land disputes be resolved within 90 days and has already been challenged in multiple legal petitions.
