Correct Answer:
A. Power to conduct inspections, searches, seizures, and arrests
The Punjab Enforcement and Regulatory Authority (PERA), established under the Punjab Enforcement and Regulation Act 2024, is primarily an enforcement body. Its core mandate involves ensuring compliance with various laws and regulations. Therefore, its powers are centered on active enforcement measures, which include the power to conduct inspections, searches, seizures, and arrests to investigate and address violations effectively.
- The power to levy taxes is typically a function of revenue authorities or legislative bodies.
- The power to regulate trade policies falls under economic ministries.
- While PERA enforces regulations, the broad power to grant licenses is usually vested in specific licensing departments, not the primary enforcement agency itself.