Establishment of Defamation Tribunals in Punjab under the Defamation Act 2024

On 22 September 2025, the Government of Punjab, through the Law and Parliamentary Affairs Department, issued a notification announcing the establishment of Defamation Tribunals across the province. This decision has been taken under the powers conferred by the Punjab Defamation Act 2024 (Act XI of 2024), whereby the Governor of Punjab is authorized to constitute such tribunals and appoint their members.

Legal Basis

The appointments have been made under Section 8(1) of the Punjab Defamation Act 2024, which empowers the Governor to establish Defamation Tribunals and designate members, who are typically serving District and Sessions Judges.

Constituted Tribunals and Members

The following tribunals have been established, along with their respective members:

• Lahore: Mr. Anjum Raza Syed, District & Sessions Judge

• Multan: Mr. Muhammad Ibrahim Asghar, District & Sessions Judge

• Rawalpindi: Mr. Ghafar Mehtab, District & Sessions Judge

These judges will now serve as members of the Defamation Tribunals and preside over cases of defamation (ḥatak-e-ʿizzat) filed under the Act.

Immediate Enforcement

According to the notification, these appointments will take immediate effect, ensuring that the tribunals begin functioning without delay.

Circulation of Notification

For effective implementation, the notification has been circulated to all relevant authorities and institutions, including:

• Board of Revenue Punjab

• Planning & Development Board Lahore

• Registrar, Lahore High Court

• Advocate General Punjab

• Provincial Police Officer Punjab

• Principal Secretaries to the Governor and Chief Minister Punjab

• All Administrative Secretaries, Commissioners, and Deputy Commissioners in Punjab

• Heads of autonomous bodies

Legal and Practical Significance

The establishment of these tribunals marks a significant development in Punjab’s judicial framework. Until now, defamation cases were pursued in ordinary civil courts, often resulting in lengthy proceedings. By creating specialized tribunals, the government aims to ensure speedy and effective trials of defamation cases.

With tribunals now operational in Lahore, Multan, and Rawalpindi, litigants will have access to dedicated forums for adjudicating defamation disputes. This step is expected to reduce case backlogs, provide quicker relief, and enhance access to justice in matters concerning reputation and dignity.