Strict Action Will Be Taken Against Elements Threatening Peace and Sectarian Harmony, Says Balochistan Chief Minister
Quetta: Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti has warned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone attempting to disrupt peace, spread provocation, or undermine sectarian harmony during Muharram-ul-Haram.
The remarks were made during a high-level meeting held at the Chief Minister’s Secretariat on Monday to review the law and order situation and security arrangements for Muharram. The meeting focused on maintaining peace, ensuring the security of religious processions and gatherings, and assessing overall preparedness across the province.
Officials from the Home Department provided a comprehensive briefing on security measures and contingency plans for Muharram. The meeting was informed that an emergency response plan had been finalized for the 9th and 10th of Muharram, while all necessary security directives had already been issued.
According to the briefing, 11 districts of Balochistan have been declared highly sensitive and six districts sensitive, prompting authorities to implement enhanced security measures and monitoring mechanisms.
Addressing the participants, Chief Minister Bugti emphasized that maintaining peace and protecting the lives and property of citizens remain the government’s highest priorities. He directed all relevant institutions to ensure full implementation of the security plan through effective coordination, communication, and professional execution of duties.
The chief minister further instructed authorities to maintain proactive security arrangements, effective surveillance, and rapid response systems to prevent and address any untoward incidents during processions and religious gatherings.
Highlighting the importance of social cohesion, Bugti said that religious scholars, spiritual leaders, and representatives of all schools of thought play a vital role in promoting harmony, tolerance, and brotherhood during Muharram. He appreciated their continued cooperation in maintaining a peaceful environment.
The chief minister reiterated that individuals involved in incitement, attempts to disturb public order, or actions that could damage sectarian harmony would face strict action under the law. He also directed security agencies to utilize all available resources to ensure a peaceful atmosphere and warned that any negligence in security arrangements would not be tolerated.
The meeting was attended by Provincial Home Minister Mir Ziaullah Langau, Chief Minister’s spokesperson Shahid Rind, Chief Secretary Shakeel Qadir Khan, Additional Chief Secretary Home Hamza Shafqat, Inspector General of Police Muhammad Tahir Khan, Special Secretary Home Abdul Salam Achakzai, DIG CTD Aitzaz Hussain Goraya, and other senior officials.
