Punjab Imposes Section 144 Across Province for Muharram Security Concerns

Lahore: The government of Lahore Punjab has imposed Section 144 across the province in view of security concerns during Muharram-ul-Haram to maintain law and order.

According to a notification issued by the Home Department, the restrictions will remain in place from June 17 to June 26 across Punjab, during which several activities have been strictly regulated.

The notification states that only officially approved processions and religious gatherings will be allowed during Muharram. The display of all types of weapons and inflammable materials in public places has also been strictly prohibited.

Authorities have further banned the use of provocative slogans, gestures, or statements that could incite public emotions or disturb religious and sectarian harmony. Any activity promoting hatred or division on sectarian or ethnic grounds has also been restricted.

The government has also imposed a ban on collecting stones, bricks, bottles, or any other harmful objects on rooftops along procession routes. Spectator presence on rooftops or shop terraces along the procession paths has also been prohibited.

Security measures further include restrictions on the formation of makeshift enclosures or defensive structures on rooftops of buildings situated along procession routes to prevent any untoward incidents.

In addition, authorities have stated that most restrictions will apply from the 1st to 10th of Muharram, while a strict ban on motorcycle double riding will be enforced on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, except for senior citizens, women, and law enforcement personnel.