Punjab Enforces Section 144 for Muharram Security Across Province
The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province to strengthen security measures and maintain law and order during Muharram, officials said on Wednesday.
According to the Punjab Home Department, the restrictions will remain effective from 1st to 10th Muharram, covering the period from June 17 to June 26 across Punjab.
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Under the notification, all gatherings and activities have been banned except those processions and religious gatherings that have already been approved by the authorities. The display of weapons, incendiary material and any object that may be used to create unrest has also been strictly prohibited.
The government has warned that strict action will be taken against hate speech, sectarian slogans, inflammatory remarks and any statements that could promote religious or ethnic intolerance.
The order also bars the construction of temporary positions on rooftops along procession routes. Authorities have also banned the collection of stones, bricks, bottles or similar objects on rooftops near procession areas.
Gatherings of spectators on rooftops, platforms and other elevated places along procession routes will also not be allowed during Muharram security operations.
Officials said pillion riding will be banned on the 9th and 10th of Muharram. However, senior citizens, women and personnel of law enforcement agencies will be exempted from the restriction.
Security arrangements have also been intensified across Punjab, including Lahore. Police officials said more than 30,000 personnel have been deployed throughout the province to ensure peace during Muharram.
According to officials, security is being provided for 96 processions and 3,448 majalis across Punjab. In Lahore, over 3,000 police personnel have been assigned security duties.
On the first day of Muharram, 10 processions and 411 majalis are being held in Lahore under strict security arrangements.
More than 15,000 community volunteers are also supporting law enforcement agencies in managing security and assisting during processions and religious gatherings.
Punjab Inspector General Abdul Karim said security would remain on high alert throughout Muharram and Section 144 would be implemented strictly across the province.
He said comprehensive security measures had been put in place to ensure peace and prevent any untoward incident during the holy month.
Police officials also reminded citizens that aerial firing and the display of weapons are completely banned. They said hate material, provocative speeches and incitement would be dealt with firmly under the law.
Authorities added that only designated routes and approved venues would be allowed for Muharram processions and gatherings, while enforcement of the Loudspeaker Act would continue strictly.
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