Lahore — The Punjab government has introduced sweeping amendments to anti-narcotics laws, making penalties significantly harsher and tightening bail provisions for drug-related offences.

According to the newly issued ordinance, suspects facing life imprisonment in narcotics cases will no longer be eligible for bail. The amendments mark a major shift in how such cases will be prosecuted and adjudicated in the province.

The ordinance explicitly states that courts must assess both the severity of the case and require heavy surety bonds before granting bail in any other offences related to narcotics. Furthermore, appeals against special court verdicts will now be heard by a two-member bench of the Lahore High Court, nominated by the Chief Justice of the High Court.

Officials clarified that the amended provincial law will function parallel to the federal Control of Narcotic Substances Act (CNSA) and is aimed at eliminating legal loopholes and procedural delays that have long hindered swift justice in narcotics cases. The revised law is expected to enhance the effectiveness of anti-drug operations across Punjab.

The Punjab Law Department confirmed that significant revisions have been made to Sections 38, 39, 40, 41, and 44, while some previous clauses have been repealed entirely.

Under the changes:

• Section 39 introduces the term “Special Court,” empowering these courts to impose stricter bail conditions.
• Section 40 reforms the appeal process by placing it under a two-judge High Court bench.
• Section 41(2) has been abolished to streamline case handling.
• Section 44 has been amended to make implementation mandatory, ensuring enforcement without delay.

Legal experts suggest these amendments will accelerate the hearing process for narcotics cases, reducing the backlog that has burdened Punjab’s judicial system.

The ordinance was approved earlier under Article 128 of the Constitution by Governor Punjab due to the provincial assembly not being in session, and it came into immediate effect on September 20, 2025.

A Gazette notification confirming the enforcement of the ordinance has already been issued by the Punjab Law and Parliamentary Affairs Department.