Sindh govt forwards cellular services suspension plea to Islamabad

KARACHI: The Sindh government has forwarded an application to the Ministry of Interior requesting suspension of cellular services for 10 days of Muharram-ul-Haram.

The provincial home department has asked for the suspension of mobile phone services on Ashura in different districts of Sindh.

The home department has suggested for suspension of cellular phone and Internet services along the routes of the mourning processions. Sindh home department has requested the interior ministry to resolve the issue according to the rules and update the provincial government.

Section 144 has been imposed by Punjab government throughout the province from 1st to 10th Muharram (June 27 to July 6, 2025) for security reasons during Muharram-ul-Haram.

The step is meant to ensure the safety of the public, uphold religious harmony, and avert any untoward situation while celebrating Muharram.

Under a notification, only previously-approved processions and religious gatherings (majalis) have been permitted during this time.

No fresh events or alterations to ongoing processions will be allowed without the approval of the competent authority”.

As per the order, the exhibition of weapons and inflammable substances in public areas is banned outright.

Provocative slogans, gestures, and any word of mouth, written, or electronic statements that can precipitate sectarian or communal enmity have also been banned by the government.

Any effort at propagating religious or ethnic intolerance by speeches, media, or social networking will be tackled under the provisions of Section 144.