LAHORE: The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province in view of security concerns during Muharram-ul-Haram, introducing strict restrictions from 1st to 10th Muharram to maintain law and order and ensure public safety.
According to official details, the government has enforced these measures to promote religious harmony and protect the lives and property of citizens during Muharram processions and gatherings.
The Punjab Home Department has issued a formal notification stating that Section 144 will remain in force throughout the province from 1st to 10th Muharram.
Under the restrictions, no new practices, innovations, or changes will be allowed in traditional Muharram processions and gatherings. The government has also imposed a complete ban on hate speech, provocative slogans, sectarian remarks, and any statements that could incite religious or ethnic hatred.
Authorities warned that strict legal action will be taken against individuals spreading hateful content on social media or any other platform.
The notification further states that the display of weapons and explosives without prior permission will remain strictly prohibited across the province.
Security measures also include a ban on the construction of makeshift barriers or forts on rooftops along procession routes. Additionally, the accumulation of stones, bricks, bottles, or any other objects on procession routes has been prohibited.
Spectators will also not be allowed to sit on shop fronts or rooftops along procession routes during Muharram processions.
Officials clarified that restrictions on motorcycle pillion riding will be enforced separately. The ban will apply only on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, with exemptions granted to women, children, the elderly, and security personnel.
A spokesperson for the Punjab Home Department said the enforcement of Section 144 is solely aimed at maintaining peace and ensuring public safety, adding that protecting citizens’ lives and property remains the government’s top priority.
The Home Secretary has directed the administration to ensure wide media coverage of these restrictions across Lahore and the province so that citizens remain fully informed and any untoward incident can be avoided.
