Punjab Province

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
In a significant development, the Punjab Assembly has ordered an immediate suspension of the enforcement of revised agricultural income tax rates, declaring the relevant government notifications procedurally flawed and legally ineffective.
The ruling was issued by Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan during the 41st session of the provincial assembly while addressing a privilege motion moved by MPA Zulfiqar Ali Shah. In his decision, the Speaker directed the Excise and Taxation Department to halt all enforcement actions, including assessments and recoveries under the revised tax regime, with immediate effect.
The Speaker further instructed the provincial government to present the contested notifications before the Assembly within 15 days, along with a detailed explanation outlining the procedural shortcomings. Additionally, the matter has been referred to the Committee on Law Reforms and Delegated Legislation, which has been tasked with identifying responsibility and submitting its findings within one month.
The controversy stems from notifications issued on March 5, 2025, which revised agricultural income tax rates, followed by another notification dated September 10, 2025. The latter sought retrospective implementation from July 1, 2025. Lawmakers objected to these measures, arguing that they were not presented before the Assembly during the 2025–26 budget session, as mandated under Section 11(2) of the Punjab Agricultural Income Tax Act, 1997.
In his ruling, the Speaker emphasized that the authority to impose taxes lies with the legislature under the Constitution, and any delegated powers must adhere strictly to procedural requirements. He observed that failure to lay such notifications before the Assembly renders them legally void.
Terming the omission a breach of parliamentary privilege, the Speaker underscored the necessity of legislative oversight in taxation matters. He also cited relevant judicial precedents reinforcing the requirement that tax-related notifications must be formally presented before the House.
The ruling further clarified that any future revisions to agricultural income tax rates must be introduced and approved through the Assembly as part of the annual budget process to be enforceable. It also noted that taxpayers affected by the now-suspended notifications retain the right to seek legal remedies regarding any recoveries made under the revised rates.

Lahore | ReNews Pakistan
The Punjab government has introduced a major reform initiative to enhance transparency and efficiency in the land and property transaction system, making it mandatory for all transactions to be carried out through a “Green Property Certificate.” The move aims to eliminate fake documentation, multiple ownership claims, and land disputes.
According to official sources, the traditional Fard for Sale and other outdated paper based procedures have been completely abolished. Under the new system, the Green Property Certificate will provide simultaneous verification of both ownership and possession, ensuring legal protection for both buyers and sellers.
Authorities stated that the system has initially been implemented in major cities and will be expanded gradually to other districts across the province to establish a uniform and transparent framework.
Meanwhile, significant progress has also been made in the land digitization campaign. Under the modern land management system, land records are being digitized, which has not only improved transparency but also led to a noticeable reduction in land related disputes.
Citizens have been advised to visit their nearest land record centers to obtain the Green Property Certificate. Officials described these reforms as a major milestone toward establishing a modern and secure land administration system, which is expected to boost confidence and investment in the real estate sector.

Lahore: [Riaz Hussain ReNews Pakistan]
On the directives of DG LDA Tahir Farooq, the Town Planning Wing of the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) is actively conducting operations against illegal commercial buildings and defaulters of commercial fees.
On Tuesday, LDA teams carried out operations in various housing schemes and controlled areas, sealing a total of 114 properties. The actions were taken in Defence Road, Babar Block New Garden Town, Shadbagh, Gulshan Ravi, New Muslim Town, and Sabzazar.
On Defence Road, 55 properties were sealed for illegal commercial use. Meanwhile, in Babar Block New Garden Town, 7 properties, and in Shadbagh, Gulshan Ravi, and New Muslim Town, 42 properties were sealed due to non-payment of commercial fees and illegal usage. During a recovery operation in Sabzazar, an additional 10 properties were sealed.
The sealed properties include wedding halls, marquees, private schools, academies, workshops, electric stores, restaurants, food points, grocery stores, bakeries, beauty salons, pharmacies, clinics, shops, and offices.
The operation was conducted under the supervision of Chief Town Planner I Asad uz Zaman and Chief Town Planner II Azhar Ali. According to the DG LDA, indiscriminate actions against illegal commercial activities and fee defaulters will continue in the future.