The Punjab government has arrested 27 individuals in connection with alleged pre-election campaigning ahead of the official notification of the upcoming provincial elections, officials confirmed. The arrests came as part of a crackdown to enforce the Election Commission of Pakistan’s rules, which prohibit campaigning before the mandated start date.

Punjab Law Minister Ajmal Cheema said authorities are committed to a level playing field for all political parties and warned that any violation of electoral laws will be dealt with firmly. The arrested individuals are reportedly linked to multiple parties, and investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of early campaigning activities.

Officials emphasised that enforcing pre-election rules is crucial to ensure free and fair elections, adding that further arrests could follow if violations persist. The Election Commission has reiterated its guidelines to political stakeholders across the province.