Pakistan: Punjab Imposes Restrictions During Muharram to Maintain Order

The Punjab government in Pakistan has imposed Section 144 across the province for the first 10 days of Muharram, citing potential threats to public safety and sectarian harmony, Dawn newspaper reported yesterday.

This legal measure allows authorities to restrict certain activities. The restrictions include a ban on “innovations at processions,” the display of weapons, hate speech, and distribution of sectarian materials.

Additionally, occupying rooftops along procession routes and constructing “firing bays” on them is prohibited.

Pillion riding on motorcycles will be banned from the 7th to 10th of Muharram, with exceptions for senior citizens, women, and law enforcement personnel.

These measures follow the government’s request for 150 companies of Pakistan Army and Rangers to maintain order during Muharram. They also previously requested the suspension of six social media platforms, but the interior ministry has not yet made a decision on that request.