To curb the rising menace of organized crime and street violence in Punjab, the provincial government is set to introduce the Prevention of Goonda Act, 2025. The bill is expected to be presented soon in the Provincial Assembly and is likely to be passed.
Before discussing the proposed law, it is important to understand the concept of a “goonda” in legal terms.
Who Is Considered a Goonda?
The definition of a goonda is not new. Under the Prevention of Goonda Ordinance, 1959, as many as 26 categories were specified to determine who qualifies as a goonda. Broadly speaking, any individual who repeatedly commits crimes falls within this category.
Some key examples include:
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A person involved in habitual criminal activities
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Anyone running brothel houses or places of prostitution
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Individuals involved in illegal land grabbing and encroachments
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Persons who repeatedly commit acts of violence, oppression, or intimidation
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Those who spread fear and disorder in society
When these categories are examined together, the legal framework defining a goonda becomes clear.
Who Has the Authority to Declare Someone a Goonda?
Under the proposed framework:
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A District Intelligence Committee will be formed in each district.
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This committee will prepare and maintain a list of individuals declared as goondas in the area.
If a person objects to being included in this list:
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They may file an appeal before the Divisional Intelligence Committee.
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If relief is still denied, they can approach the Provincial Intelligence Committee.
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Finally, the matter can be challenged before a Tribunal, headed by a retired Sessions Judge, whose decision will carry final authority.
Legal Consequences of Being Declared a Goonda
Once a person is officially declared a goonda, the consequences are severe:
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A fine of up to Rs. 1.5 million may be imposed.
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Crimes committed by a declared goonda may become non-bailable, even if they are ordinarily bailable offenses.
For example:
Under Section 354 PPC (use of criminal force against a woman), an ordinary accused person may be granted bail. However, if the accused has already been declared a goonda, the same offense may be treated as non-bailable, and bail can be refused.
A Critical Question Still Unanswered
While the proposed law clearly defines who can be declared a goonda, the penalties involved, and the appellate mechanisms available, one serious issue remains unaddressed:
What about the “goondas in uniform”?
Across Punjab, allegations of abuse of power, unlawful force, and intimidation by certain officials continue to surface. As of now, no concrete legislation exists to deal specifically with such elements operating under the cover of authority.
This raises an important question for lawmakers and citizens alike:
How will accountability be ensured for those who misuse state power while enforcing the law?
Share your thoughts in the comments and let us know how, in your view, such elements can and should be dealt with under the law.