Punjab issues list of banned organisations ahead of Eidul Azha

LAHORE – The Punjab Home Department has issued a list of banned organisations ahead of Eidul Azha and urged citizens not to donate sacrificial animal hides to banned outfits or their affiliated institutions. Punjab Home Department spokesperson said that providing any form of assistance to banned organisations is a punishable offence under the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997. The spokesperson warned that individuals found supporting organisations involved in terrorism or anti-state activities would face legal action. The department advised citizens to donate sacrificial hides only to organisations registered with the Punjab Charity Commission. It said registration with the commission is mandatory for all charitable organisations operating in Punjab. Citizens were informed that the authenticity of registered organisations could be verified through the QR code printed on their registration certificates. The spokesperson added that deputy commissioners issue separate permits to seminaries and welfare organisations for the collection of sacrificial hides during Eidul Azha. The Home Department urged the public to ensure that their donations reach deserving people instead of terrorist groups. Citizens were also advised to confirm that any organisation collecting hides possesses a valid certificate issued either by the Punjab Charity Commission or the relevant deputy commissioner. The spokesperson said the list of proscribed organisations includes groups such as Lashkar-e-Jhangvi, Jaish-e-Mohammed, Al-Qaeda, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, Balochistan Liberation Army, Islamic State, Jamaat-ud-Dawa, Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation and several other banned and monitored outfits. The department requested citizens to immediately report any collection of sacrificial hides by banned organisations on the toll-free number 0800-11111 or helplines 042-99330399 and 042-99330162.