Punjab Prevention Of Gambling Ordinance, 1978

Section 1

This section provides the ordinance's name, specifies its applicability within the Punjab province, and indicates the date it comes into effect.

Section 2

Clarifies key terms used throughout the ordinance, such as "common gaming house," "instruments of gaming," and other relevant terminology.

Section 3

Outlines the penalties imposed on individuals who own, keep, or are in charge of a common gaming house, including fines and imprisonment.

Section 4

Specifies the consequences for individuals found present in a common gaming house, presuming participation in gambling activities.

Section 5

Details the sanctions for persons caught gambling in public areas, aiming to deter such activities in open spaces.

Section 6

Grants law enforcement officers the authority to arrest individuals without a warrant and seize gambling instruments when offenses are committed in their presence.

Section 7

Empowers police officers to enter and search premises suspected of being used for gambling activities, following specific procedural requirements.

Section 8

Establishes presumptions regarding individuals found in gaming houses or in possession of gaming instruments, placing the burden of proof on the accused.

Section 9

Specifies the judicial authorities competent to try offenses under this ordinance, ensuring proper legal proceedings.

Section 10

Provides legal protection to individuals acting in good faith under the provisions of the ordinance, safeguarding them from prosecution.

Section 11

Addresses the repeal of previous laws related to gambling and ensures that actions taken under those laws remain valid.