Pakistan: Punjab Considers Social Media Curbs, Beefs Up Security for Muharram

Pakistan’s Punjab province is weighing temporary social media restrictions during the upcoming Muharram observances, citing concerns about potential sectarian violence. Over 457,000 officers, personnel and volunteers will perform security duties across the province from Muharram 1 to 10 to protect 38,000 Majalis and over 10,700 processions across the province during the ten days of Muharram.

Muharram, a month of lamentation and mourning period for Shia Muslims, marks the tragedies of Karbala, the martyrdom of Imam al-Hussain (peace be upon him) and his companies, as well as the captivity of his pure family. Large processions are held throughout Pakistan to commemorate this event.

The proposal of the Punjab Provincial Government comes after authorities blocked access to the X platform for over four months. This time, a six-day ban on YouTube, WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok is being considered, from July 13 to 18, to curb the spread of “hate material” during Muharram.

Provincial officials claim they are worried that hateful content and misinformation on social media could incite violence. A final decision on the restrictions is still pending.

Meanwhile, Punjab Police are taking a multi-pronged approach to ensure safety during Muharram. Over 457,000 personnel will be deployed across the province to safeguard religious gatherings and processions.

The plan includes heightened security in Lahore, with over 28,000 officers patrolling the streets. Authorities will closely monitor identified “flashpoints” and proactively coordinate with event organizers. Strict enforcement of the Loudspeaker Act and social media monitoring are also part of the strategy to prevent any incitement.

Authorities have urged public cooperation to maintain order and peace. Processions and gatherings are required to follow designated routes. Hate speech on social media will face legal consequences.

It should be mentioned that Pakistan has the world’s third-largest Shia population after Iran and India, estimated at 12-20% of the country’s total. These adherent of Ahlul-Bayt, peace be upon them, revive the Husseini rituals every year despite restrictions.