The Punjab Home Department has issued a public advisory cautioning citizens against donating to proscribed organizations and unregistered charitable institutions.

In a statement released in Lahore on February 20, the department emphasized that under the Anti-Terrorism Act 1997, providing financial assistance or any form of support to banned outfits constitutes a criminal offense.

Authorities urged the public to exercise due diligence before making contributions, especially during charitable seasons, and to avoid giving zakat, donations, or other forms of financial aid to entities that are either unregistered or included in the government’s list of proscribed organizations.

The department also released an updated list of such organizations and institutions, advising citizens to verify the legal status of charities through official government channels before extending support. Officials warned that individuals found facilitating or funding banned groups may face strict legal consequences under applicable laws.

The advisory is part of broader efforts to curb terror financing and ensure that charitable contributions are directed toward legitimate and registered welfare organizations. Citizens have been encouraged to report suspicious fundraising activities to relevant authorities.