LAHORE: The Punjab government has decided to enforce Section 144 across the province from 1st to 10th Muharram to ensure security during the holy month.
According to the spokesperson of the Punjab Home Department, no new processions or gatherings will be allowed during this period. The public is also banned from displaying weapons or flammable materials in public places without prior approval from the authorities.
Under Section 144, provocative slogans, gestures, or actions that may hurt religious feelings or incite sectarian tensions are strictly prohibited. Any statements or comments that promote sectarian or ethnic hatred will also be punishable under this law.
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The spokesperson added that collecting stones, bricks, bottles, or garbage on rooftops or buildings along procession routes is not allowed. Watching processions from rooftops or shop fronts has also been restricted.
On the 9th and 10th of Muharram, pillion riding will be banned across Punjab. However, elderly citizens, women, and law enforcement personnel will be exempted from this restriction.
All these security-related restrictions under Section 144 will remain in place from 1st to 10th Muharram, as per the Punjab Home Department.
A few days ago, the Punjab government announced a detailed security plan for Muharram to ensure peace and safety during religious events across the province.
According to the Home Department, Muharram is expected to begin on June 26 or 27, depending on the moon sighting.
To monitor majalis, processions, and sensitive locations, a digital surveillance system has been activated. Deputy commissioners have been told to upload all related data within five days. The system will be supervised by Kamran Taj, a network engineer from the Home Department.
The department has asked the Inspector General of Police to arrange the deployment of Pakistan Army and Punjab Rangers for added security. Officials must submit details of deployment areas and timelines within a week. The plan also includes mobile signal jamming in selected sensitive areas.
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To prevent sectarian tensions, the government has issued clear guidelines. Non-Shia gatherings must be held separately from Ahl-e-Tashee events. The instructions stress that security should be provided to all sects without any discrimination.
For public safety, electricity companies have been directed to fix any loose or hanging wires along procession routes. District teams will survey these routes, and technical teams will remain on alert.
Loudspeaker use will be strictly monitored under the Punjab Sound Systems (Regulation) Act, 2015. Field reports will be submitted daily, and violations will face strict action.
District Intelligence Committees have been asked to finalize emergency plans and update the list of banned speakers. Meanwhile, the Auqaf and Religious Affairs Department will hold meetings of the Ittehad Bain-ul-Muslimeen committees at the divisional level to promote religious harmony.
Only approved processions and gatherings will be allowed, and any unauthorised activity will be stopped.
The government said these measures aim to ensure a peaceful and respectful environment during Muharram while addressing potential security challenges.
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