In anticipation of the holy month of Muharram, the Sindh government has taken proactive measures to ensure peace, security, and the observance of religious rituals across the province. These measures, outlined in a notification by the provincial home department, include a ban on pillion riding effective ahead of Ashura on Muharram 9 and 10, coinciding with the commencement of the new Islamic year in the first week of July.
The ban on pillion riding is a standard precautionary measure aimed at preventing potential security threats during sensitive periods such as Muharram, a time of deep religious significance for Muslims worldwide. However, exceptions have been made to accommodate specific groups, including women, children under the age of 12, senior citizens, differently abled individuals, journalists, law enforcement personnel, private security agency personnel in uniform, and employees of essential services. These exemptions ensure that those who may not pose security risks are not inconvenienced unnecessarily.
Additionally, the government has enforced Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), which prohibits carrying and displaying weapons without a permit, as well as conducting processions and Majalis (religious gatherings) without prior authorization. This legal framework is crucial for maintaining public safety and order, particularly in densely populated areas where large gatherings could potentially escalate into security challenges if not properly regulated.
During Muharram 1 to 10, authorities in Sindh have been instructed to strictly enforce regulations concerning the use of loudspeakers, dissemination of materials inciting hatred or violence, unauthorized presence on rooftops during Muharram events, and unauthorized assemblies of five or more individuals, except for sanctioned religious processions and gatherings. These measures are designed to prevent any disruptions to public tranquility and ensure that religious activities proceed peacefully and respectfully.
Furthermore, the directive suspends all previously issued permissions by the Home Department for carrying weapons under relaxed conditions, reinforcing the stringent enforcement of the ban on arms and ammunition during this period. Station House Officers (SHOs) have been empowered to take legal action against violators of these regulations under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC), emphasizing the government’s commitment to upholding law and order.
Meanwhile, in Punjab, a similar approach has been adopted with the declaration of 502 sensitive locations where stringent security measures will be enforced during Muharram. The provincial interior ministry has restricted processions and gatherings to designated areas where comprehensive monitoring will be conducted to ensure compliance with safety protocols and prevent any potential security threats.
These measures reflect the government’s proactive stance in safeguarding public safety and religious freedoms during Muharram, a period of solemnity and commemoration for Muslims worldwide. By implementing these regulations, authorities aim to facilitate the peaceful observance of religious rituals while mitigating any risks to public security, underscoring the importance of effective governance and community cooperation in maintaining harmony and cohesion during sensitive times.
