Correct Answer:
B. 50% of value of articles
This question asks about the financial penalty for hoarding. In addition to imprisonment, the Act also imposes a monetary fine. The Punjab Prevention of Hoarding Act 2020 stipulates that a person convicted of hoarding shall also be liable to a fine equivalent to 50% of the value of the articles hoarded. This fine is calculated based on the market value of the illegally stockpiled goods, serving as a financial disincentive. Options like "100% of value," "Fixed Rs. 1,000,000," or "Rs. 500,000" are incorrect as they do not reflect the specific percentage-based fine prescribed by the Act.