LAHORE: The Punjab Home Department has set up a high-powered committee to address religious and administrative matters that could cause sectarian tensions or misunderstandings among different Muslim sects in the province.
According to an official notification, the committee was formed following discussions during a recent meeting of the Standing Committee of the Cabinet on Law and Order (SCCLO).
The committee’s main task will be to hold talks with stakeholders, defuse tensions, and develop a consensus-based strategy on sensitive issues. It will submit its recommendations to the SCCLO through the Punjab Home Secretary for policy decisions.
The Special Secretary of the Home Department will act as the convener of the committee. Other members include senior officials from the Local Government and Community Development (LG&CD) Department, Auqaf and Religious Affairs Department, Punjab Police, Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), and Special Branch. Deputy commissioners and senior police officers from relevant districts will also be part of the body.
Representatives from the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) and other development authorities will join when needed. The convener may also include additional members if required.
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The step has been taken amid rising concerns over the misuse of religious platforms, sectarian speeches, and local administrative disputes, which have at times led to unrest in different districts.
The Home Department has asked all related departments to nominate suitable officers so the committee can start work without delay.
Copies of the notification have been sent to the Punjab Minister for Specialized Healthcare and Medical Education, who chairs the SCCLO, as well as to the Inspector General of Police, heads of relevant departments, and district officials across Punjab.
Officials believe this committee will play a key role in preventing conflicts and promoting harmony by addressing potential flashpoints before they escalate.
