Dr. Ahmad Javed Qazi, Secretary of the Punjab Home Department, held a detailed meeting with members of civil society in Lahore to discuss joint efforts against extremism and to promote social harmony across the province.
The meeting focused on building a strong partnership between the government and civil society to promote public welfare, youth development, and awareness campaigns. The special session was organized in collaboration with the Punjab Charities Commission and the Punjab Centre of Excellence on Countering Violent Extremism.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Qazi said that establishing a peaceful and united society remains the top priority of the Government of Punjab. He stressed that authorities are actively spreading messages of tolerance and working to eliminate violent extremism through coordinated strategies.
He highlighted ongoing awareness campaigns aimed at protecting children from abuse and exploitation. The secretary also stated that strict action is being taken against organized and professional begging networks, with offenders being brought under the law and given tough punishments.
Dr. Qazi further shared that Punjab Probation and Parole services have been upgraded, introducing a community service model for accidental or minor offenders. Thousands of young volunteers have also been trained under the Punjab Civil Defence Resilience Corps to strengthen emergency preparedness and community safety.
He added that Safe City infrastructure is being expanded across the province, while a Public Safety App has been introduced to ensure quick response in emergencies. The government, he said, continues to implement the revised National Action Plan effectively.
On the issue of narcotics, the secretary emphasized that strict anti-drug laws are being enforced in Punjab, carrying penalties of up to 25 years in prison along with heavy fines. He warned that drug use or sale near educational institutions will result in the harshest punishments.
Dr. Qazi also mentioned that religious scholars and mosque leaders have been taken on board to promote peace and discourage extremism. He concluded by saying that promoting peace, tolerance, and respect for the law is essential to building a safer and stronger society.
Senior officials and prominent civil society members attended the meeting and reaffirmed their commitment to working together with the government for a peaceful and drug-free Punjab.
