Amid mounting pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump’s policies, Pakistan has been forced to take strict measures to stop the financial support of terrorist organizations. This includes halting funding for 83 banned terror groups, including Hafiz Saeed’s Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jamaat-ud-Dawa, and Falah-e-Insaniyat Foundation.

Punjab Government’s Stern Warning

The Punjab provincial government issued a stern warning to citizens, urging them to only donate to registered and legally recognized charity organizations. The updated list of banned organizations was released by the Home Department, calling on people to avoid contributing to any group linked to terrorism.

History of Banned Organizations in Pakistan

The process of banning terrorist organizations in Pakistan began in 2001, following sanctions on groups like Lashkar-e-Jhangvi and Sipah-e-Muhammad. Over the years, several other groups, including Jaish-e-Mohammad, Lashkar-e-Taiba, Sipah-e-Sahaba Pakistan, and others, were added to the list. The recent decision is a continuation of this effort to curb terrorist financing.

Legal Implications of Donating to Banned Groups

The Punjab government has made it clear that providing any form of financial support to banned organizations is a crime under Pakistan’s Anti-Terrorism Act of 1997. Individuals found guilty of aiding these groups will face strict legal consequences. Furthermore, all charity organizations operating in Punjab must register with the Punjab Charity Commission to ensure transparency and accountability.

Ensuring Donations Reach the Right Hands

The government has urged the public to ensure that their donations reach those in need, not terrorist groups. Citizens can find a list of registered charity organizations on the official Punjab Charity Commission website to verify whether their contributions are going to authorized entities.

Reporting Suspicious Activities

Citizens have been asked to report any suspicious activities, fraud, or terrorist-related activities to the Home Department. Information about any fund collection by banned organizations can be reported to the toll-free number 0800-11111 or helpline numbers 042-99214871 and 042-99214872.