Punjab Enforcement and Regulatory Authority

The Punjab Enforcement and Regulatory Authority (PERA)^[2] (PERA Force) is a government agency established under the Punjab Enforcement and Regulation Act, 2024 by the Government of Punjab, Pakistan. It serves as a centralized provincial body responsible for enforcing special laws, coordinating among regulatory entities, and streamlining governance through field-based enforcement mechanisms across the province.^[3][4][5]

PERA was conceived to address increasing challenges related to overlapping jurisdictions, weak enforcement of special laws, and administrative inefficiencies. The Act was passed by the Punjab Assembly in 2024, laying the legal foundation for the Authority’s formation and operations.

The Authority is tasked with:

• Improving coordination among regulatory agencies.
• Implementing uniform enforcement procedures under special laws.
• Addressing jurisdictional overlaps in regulatory matters.
• Setting up Enforcement Stations at sub-divisional levels.
• Empowering officers to undertake non-judicial administrative actions.

The governance and operational framework of PERA consists of:

• Chairperson: Chief Minister of Punjab
• Vice Chairperson: Chief Secretary of Punjab
• Members:
  • Secretaries from departments including Home, Police, Finance, Local Government, and others
  • Three nominated members of the Provincial Assembly (including one female)
  • Four independent members (including one female) selected through a formal Selection Panel process
  • Director General: Serves as both Member and Secretary of the Authority

• Director General: Heads the Authority’s day-to-day operations
• District Enforcement and Regulatory Boards: Operate at the district level, chaired by Deputy Commissioners
• Enforcement Stations: Located at sub-division level, comprising:
  • Sub Divisional Enforcement Officers
  • Enforcement Officers
  • Investigation Officers
  • Sergeants
  • Support Staff

PERA officers are granted wide-ranging powers to:

• Inspect, search, and seal premises
• Arrest offenders under the Act or Scheduled laws
• Remove encroachments and public nuisances
• Issue Emergency Prohibition Orders (EPOs)
• Confiscate property and impose fines

• All offences under the Act are cognizable and non-bailable.
• PERA officers may conduct investigations and register FIRs.
• Legal appeals can be filed before Hearing Officers, Commissioners, and finally the Courts.

• Confidential whistle-blower protections and monetary rewards are available.
• Public grievances against misuse of authority may be submitted to a Grievance Redressal Commissioner or the District Board Chairperson.

PERA symbolizes a major reform in Punjab’s approach to regulation and governance. By centralizing enforcement and streamlining inter-agency functions, it aims to promote transparency, accountability, and public welfare.^[6]