Punjab Enforcement and Regulation Act (PERA) 2024 – MCQs Archives - Page 13 of 43

Punjab Enforcement and Regulation Act (PERA) 2024 – MCQs

Punjab Enforcement and Regulation Act (PERA) 2024 – MCQs with Answers

The Punjab Enforcement and Regulation Act (PERA) 2024 was enacted in October 2024 to streamline enforcement of special laws across Punjab. The Act established the Punjab Enforcement and Regulatory Authority (PERA), chaired by the Chief Minister Punjab, with a Director General as the administrative head.

PERA aims to coordinate different regulators, tackle issues like price control, hoarding, encroachments, and public safety, and ensure swift administrative action through summary proceedings. Enforcement Stations are being set up at the sub-division level, with 154 stations planned across Punjab.

The Act introduces new concepts such as:

Absolute Orders under Emergency Prohibition Orders (EPOs)

Whistle-blower protections for individuals reporting violations in the public interest

Grievance Redressal Commissioner to handle public complaints

District Enforcement and Regulatory Boards comprising the Deputy Commissioner and DPO

Appeals against confiscation or penalties lie with the Hearing Officer (PAS/PMS), and PERA actions are largely administrative and non-judicial. While the Act is designed to enhance governance, it has also faced criticism for creating bureaucratic overlap with police functions.

This MCQs set covers all important aspects of PERA 2024, including definitions, key provisions, enforcement mechanisms, authorities, punishments, and criticisms, to help candidates preparing for PPSC, PMS, and other competitive exams.

The key feature of an Absolute Order, unlike an EPO, is that it is:

A. Temporary

B. Final and enforceable with penalties

C. Issued by the EO

D. Not appealable

Correct answer is: B. Final and enforceable with penalties

Absolute Orders are final and backed by penalties.

The Hearing Officer must decide a complaint or representation by a:

A. Verbal order

B. Written order with reasons

C. Summary note

D. Recommendation to the Board

Correct answer is: B. Written order with reasons

HO must issue a reasoned written order.

The maximum time limit for the entire process from filing a representation to its decision is:

A. 30 days

B. 60 days

C. 90 days (30 to file + 60 to decide)

D. 120 days

Correct answer is: C. 90 days (30 to file + 60 to decide)

The Act provides 30 days to file and 60 days for decision, totaling 90 days.

An EPO is issued if the Enforcement Officer, after the IO’s report, finds that the nuisance:

A. Might exist

B. Exists

C. Existed in the past

D. Is minor

Correct answer is: B. Exists

An EPO is issued when a nuisance actually exists.

When converting an EPO to an Absolute Order, the order must include all of the following EXCEPT:

A. Details of the nuisance

B. The name of the Investigating Officer

C. Direction to remove the nuisance

D. Penalty for non-compliance

Correct answer is: B. The name of the Investigating Officer

Investigator’s name is not required.

During a hearing, the authorized officer has the right to:

A. Issue new orders

B. Cross-examine and rebut evidence

C. Adjourn the hearing

D. Overrule the Hearing Officer

Correct answer is: B. Cross-examine and rebut evidence

Authorized officers may cross-examine and rebut evidence during proceedings.

The daily report by the EO on movable encroachments is submitted to the:

A. Hearing Officer

B. SDEO

C. Board

D. Chairperson

Correct answer is: B. SDEO

Movable encroachment reports are submitted to the SDEO.

If a nuisance is not removed as per the Absolute Order, the HO directs the SDEO, who then directs the EO to enforce under:

A. Section 38(2)

B. Section 36(5)

C. Section 39

D. Section 20

Correct answer is: B. Section 36(5)

If a party defaults in attendance, the Hearing Officer can:

A. Issue an arrest warrant

B. Adjourn and impose costs

C. Decide immediately in favor of the present party

D. Transfer the case

Correct answer is: B. Adjourn and impose costs

Non-attendance allows adjournment with possible cost imposition.

For immovable encroachment, the Hearing Officer issues notices based on the:

A. Complainant's request

B. Report from the EO via SDEO

C. Directives from the Board

D. Media reports

Correct answer is: B. Report from the EO via SDEO

Notices are based on EO reports forwarded by SDEO.