'Outrageous': Punjab's proposed law reminiscent of colonial era draws criticism

Punjab's proposed Punjab Control of Habitual Offenders and Anti-Social Behaviour Bill, 2026, grants executive powers to freeze bank accounts, seize property, and impose electronic surveillance based on intelligence committee assessments. Critics, including activists and former Citigroup executive Yousuf Nazar, argue the law undermines due process, resembles colonial-era practices, and concentrates authority in non-independent bodies.