Punjab Imposes Section 144 Across Province Ahead of Muharram Security Concerns

LAHORE:** The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province in view of security concerns during Muharram-ul-Haram, according to a notification issued by the Home Department.

Under the order, Section 144 will remain in force from June 17 to June 26, with authorities enforcing a series of restrictions aimed at maintaining law and order during religious observances.

According to the notification, only officially approved processions and religious gatherings will be permitted during Muharram. The display of all types of weapons and flammable materials in public places has been strictly prohibited.

The restrictions also ban provocative slogans, gestures, and statements that may incite sectarian or communal tensions. Any remarks or actions that could promote sectarian or ethnic hatred have also been prohibited under the order.

Furthermore, the construction of makeshift barricades or defensive structures on rooftops along procession routes has been banned. The notification also prohibits the storage of stones, bricks, bottles, or waste on rooftops of buildings situated along procession routes.

Authorities have also barred spectators from gathering on rooftops or shop fronts along procession routes to prevent overcrowding and potential security risks.

Additional measures state that certain restrictions, including those related to public gatherings, will apply from the 1st to the 10th of Muharram. However, the ban on motorcycle pillion riding will specifically be enforced on the 9th and 10th of Muharram.

The provincial government said these steps are part of a broader security plan designed to ensure peaceful observance of religious events across Punjab while preventing any possible law and order situation.