LAHORE: The Punjab government has approved the establishment of Special Courts for Overseas Pakistani Property under the Punjab Special Courts (Overseas Pakistani Property) Act 2025, in consultation with the Lahore High Court chief justice. The move aims to address the longstanding concerns of overseas Pakistanis regarding illegal property occupation and delayed justice in land-related cases.
According to a notification issued by the Services and General Administration Department (S&GAD), district and additional district & sessions judges across all 37 districts of Punjab have been designated as judges of these special courts. The initiative marks a significant step toward institutionalising a separate legal mechanism to handle disputes involving the properties of overseas Pakistanis.
These courts have been formed to ensure speedy, transparent, and effective justice in cases related to property ownership, illegal possession, and fraudulent transfers. The establishment of a dedicated judicial structure is expected to bring relief to overseas Pakistanis who frequently face hurdles in protecting their land and assets while residing abroad.
Overseas Pakistanis Commission Punjab Vice-Chairperson Barrister Amjad Malik stated that the initiative reflects the provincial government’s commitment to safeguarding the legal and civic rights of overseas citizens. He said these special courts would help restore confidence among expatriates and encourage them to invest in their home province without fear of exploitation.
He added that the move would expedite the resolution of pending property cases, strengthen legal action against land grabbers, and enhance transparency in judicial processes. The Punjab government, he said, considers overseas Pakistanis an essential part of national progress and remains dedicated to ensuring full protection of their rights and interests.
