Punjab unveils robust Muharram security plan, enforces zero-tolerance policy against sectarianism

ATTOCK, Jun 7 (APP): As Punjab gears up for Muharram-ul-Haram, the Home Department has rolled out an extensive province-wide security strategy aimed at ensuring peace, public safety, and religious harmony, the local correspondent of APP reported this from Attock on Sunday, citing official sources.

According to official directives, only licensed processions and approved Majalis will be permitted, with organizers required to strictly adhere to designated routes and schedules. Authorities have been instructed to implement foolproof security measures at Imambargahs, procession routes, sensitive installations, markets, and other crowded locations, while comprehensive traffic management plans will be enforced to facilitate public movement.

The security framework includes multi-layered arrangements featuring CCTV surveillance, walk-through gates, metal detectors, physical searches, and mandatory audio-video recording of all religious gatherings. Female police officers will be deployed for the protection of women participants, while parking areas for Majalis and Imambargahs must be established at least 500 yards away from venues. Special Branch, Punjab Food Authority, and other departments will inspect Niaz, Langar, and Sabeel arrangements, while volunteers assisting law enforcement agencies will undergo training and security clearance before deployment.

Authorities have also ordered heightened vigilance along procession routes, with hotels, guest houses, transport terminals, and rented accommodations placed under strict monitoring. Enhanced checking at provincial entry and exit points, drone surveillance of border and riverine areas, and the possible deployment of signal jammers and snipers at sensitive locations form part of the security plan. Security protocols for foreign missions, consulates, and Chinese nationals will also be implemented without exception.

Reaffirming a zero-tolerance approach, the Home Department has directed strict enforcement of the Loudspeaker Act and banned the public display of weapons, hate speech, sectarian propaganda, and extremist activities. Cyber monitoring has been intensified to curb the spread of inflammatory content, with legal action promised against violators. Meanwhile, hospitals, Rescue 1122 services, bomb disposal units, fire brigades, and district control rooms will remain on high alert throughout Muharram, while peace committees, religious scholars, and community leaders have been urged to play an active role in promoting unity, tolerance, and public awareness.