KEY POINTS
- CM Maryam orders action against loud music, food wastage, and extravagance at weddings.
- Farmhouses and open grounds now follow One Dish and loudspeaker rules.
- Monitoring teams set up to enforce event timings and legal action in Punjab.
LAHORE, Pakistan: In a bid to control extravagance and maintain public order, Pakistan’s Punjab province has launched a province-wide crackdown on the violation of the One Dish policy and the illegal use of loudspeakers at weddings and social events.
Punjab province Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has issued strict directives to all commissioners and deputy commissioners, urging them to ensure full adherence to the One Dish rule at all wedding functions and gatherings.
She stressed that food wastage, unnecessary extravagance, and loud noise must be curbed to maintain discipline.
Action against use of loudspeakers
The Chief Minister has also instructed decisive action against the illegal use of loudspeakers, with officials directed to take immediate legal steps against any violations.
Authorities confirmed that Qawwali nights, concerts, and other private events would be closely monitored, and any breach of regulations would be met with severe penalties.
The government has mandated strict measures to curb the use of loud, high-volume music at weddings and other events. Such noise often disrupts nearby families, students, and elderly residents, particularly late at night.
By regulating sound levels, the government seeks to preserve public peace while still enabling people to enjoy their celebrations. The objective is to allow festivities to continue without disturbing the comfort of others.
Farmhouses and open grounds
Farmhouses and open grounds hosting social events will now be held to the same standards as wedding halls, with the One Dish policy becoming mandatory in these venues as well.
Loudspeaker usage will be strictly regulated. The provincial government has issued clear guidelines to ensure the uniform application of the law across Punjab.
Authorities have been instructed to take legal action against the illegal use of loudspeakers at qawwali nights, parties, and gatherings, including those at farmhouses and open grounds.
These measures aim to ensure that cultural and religious events are held respectfully, without causing disruption, promoting a safer and more organized environment.
Enforcement of closing hours
Monitoring teams will also be tasked with overseeing event timings. Wedding venues and halls must adhere to designated closing hours, and government officers are prohibited from attending events that violate the One Dish or loudspeaker rules.
This aims to maintain peaceful neighbourhoods and public order, fostering a culture of joyful yet community-respecting events.
The government’s campaign aims to reduce noise pollution and curb unnecessary spending while promoting better discipline at social gatherings.
Officials emphasized that the crackdown is not only about law enforcement but also an effort to foster social responsibility and improve community welfare.
Monitoring teams are already being formed, and legal action will be taken without exception to ensure compliance across the province.
