Punjab Prevention of Hoarding Act 2020 (Act XV of 2020).

The Act outlines strict penalties for individuals found hoarding items listed in the schedule, such as poultry food, cement, cotton, face masks, sanitizers, and more. Offenders can face imprisonment of up to three years and fines equivalent to fifty percent of the value of the hoarded articles. The Act empowers officers to search and seize hoarded articles without a warrant if there are reasonable grounds for suspicion. Seized items can be auctioned, and the proceeds deposited in a bank account, to be released to the accused if acquitted or into the government exchequer if convicted. Informers providing information leading to convictions are entitled to a reward. The legislation also requires dealers to provide information on stock, purchases, and sales of listed articles, with severe penalties for false reporting or failure to disclose information. Offences under the Act are cognizable and non-bailable, with trials conducted summarily by a Special Magistrate. Appeals can be filed within thirty days of a conviction. The text contains 18 Articles and one Schedule.