Punjab cabinet committee finalizes Muharram security plan

LAHORE: Punjab Cabinet Committee on Law and Order, headed by Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique, met in Lahore to finalize Muharram security plans throughout the division.

Senior officials were present at the meeting, including the Home Secretary, AIG Special Branch, DIG Counter-Terrorism Department, Divisional Peace Committee, and religious scholars’ representatives.

The Punjab cabinet committee prioritized the overall security plan for Muharram security in Lahore, ensuring every procession and religious assembly would be carried out peacefully.

Certain districts are off-limits for a total of 76 Zakireen and speakers to enter, and 71 people have been barred from giving public speeches during the sacred month.

Khawaja Salman Rafique emphasized that all security protocols have been finalized in coordination with procession organizers.

“We are providing uninterrupted electricity and water supply along all procession routes,” he said. He also pointed out the key role of religious scholars in ensuring interfaith harmony during Muharram.

Provincial Minister Bilal Yasin elaborated that security personnel would be put on the rooftops of the buildings to provide foolproof Muharram security.

Moreover, the officials have been directed to clear hanging wires and rough roads on procession routes. Malik Sohaib Bharath, a cabinet committee member, confirmed that security arrangements were being overseen throughout the province.

The Punjab Home Secretary elaborated that security steps are being taken to control hate speech and sectarian content on social media.

Religious authorities and procession organisers have expressed their support for the preparations, welcoming the government’s active approach in maintaining peace in the month of Muharram.

Previously, the Punjab government had issued orders for the imposition of section 144 throughout the province from the 1st to the 10th day of Muharram ul Haram.

A provincial home department spokesman has stated that pillion riding will be banned in the province on the 9th and 10th of Muharram.