The Punjab government has officially announced the imposition of Section 144 across the province from the 1st to the 10th of Muharram to ensure peace, security, and sectarian harmony during the holy month.
According to an official notification issued on Friday, all public religious processions or gatherings will require prior approval from the relevant authorities. The public display of weapons, fireworks, or any other combustible materials has been strictly prohibited during this period.
In an effort to promote sectarian harmony, the use of provocative slogans, gestures, or statements that may hurt religious sentiments has also been banned. Additionally, any speech, publication, or media broadcast promoting sectarian or ethnic hatred will be restricted under the provisions of Section 144.
Residents of areas along designated procession routes have been directed not to erect temporary rooftop structures or store items such as stones, bricks, bottles, or other potentially hazardous materials on their rooftops. Authorities have also prohibited watching processions from rooftops or shop fronts along these routes to prevent any untoward incidents.
Further security measures include a province-wide ban on pillion riding on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, with exemptions granted to elderly individuals, women, and law enforcement officials performing official duties.
The government has appealed to the public for cooperation with security agencies and urged citizens to promptly report any suspicious activity to the authorities to ensure the peaceful and orderly observance of Muharram throughout Punjab.
![Local residents at the Swat River, which is overflowing due to pre-monsoon heavy rains in the area on the outskirts of Mingora, the main town of Pakistan's Swat Valley [Sherin Zada/AP]](https://mmnews.tv/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Flooding-in-Swat-river-120x86.jpg)
