Punjab on high alert as Muharram processions begin; Section 144 imposed

As the month of Muharram-ul-Haram begins, the Punjab Police have implemented strict security arrangements across the province, deploying over 25,000 officers and personnel to safeguard religious gatherings and processions.

According to the 24NewsHD TV channel, the Punjab Police spokesperson said that more than 2,600 officers have been assigned to maintain security in Lahore alone.

Across the province on 1st Muharram, 96 mourning processions and 3,253 Majalis are scheduled, while Lahore will witness 10 processions and 402 Majalis.

In support of the police, over 32,000 community volunteers are assisting in maintaining peace and order during the religious events. Authorities have imposed a strict ban on aerial firing, display of weapons, hate speech, and provocative content.

Inspector General (IG) Punjab Dr Usman Anwar confirmed that a high-security alert will remain in place throughout the first ten days of Muharram. He emphasised full enforcement of Section 144 and stated that processions and Majalis must remain confined to approved routes and venues only.

IG Anwar added that all activities will be closely monitored via Safe City Authority cameras and district administration surveillance systems. Key security divisions, including CTD, Special Branch, Traffic Police, Dolphin Squad, and PERU, are also actively deployed.

He stressed the need for strict adherence to the Loudspeaker Act and vowed to crack down on the spread of hate content via social media. All district control rooms are linked in real-time to the Central Police Office’s control centre.

In related Muharram events, the BB Pakdaman shrine in Lahore was ceremonially washed. The ritual was conducted by Chairman Shia Peace Committee Agha Faraz Hussain, Afzal Ahmed’s sister, and female officials from the Auqaf Department.

The event was also attended by Shah Hussain Qazalbash, shrine officials, and a large number of devotees. A special dua (prayer) was offered afterward.

Meanwhile, with the official sighting of the Muharram moon, a children’s mourning procession was taken out from Mohalla Shiayan, Kashmiri Gate, which passed through over 70 Imambargahs in the walled city.

The young participants chanted “Ya Hussain!” as they moved through the lanes, accompanied by elders. Police ensured extraordinary security along the entire route to maintain safety and order.

Reporters: Ali Sahi and Romail Ilyas