Comprehensive Security Arrangements During Ashra-e-Muharram in Punjab
The police force of Punjab has demonstrated exceptional dedication and efficiency in ensuring the safety and security of citizens during the Ashra-e-Muharram, a significant religious event observed by millions. The Inspector General of Police (IG) Punjab, Dr. Usman Anwar, praised the efforts of the police personnel for their outstanding performance in maintaining peace and order throughout the province.
Key Highlights of the Security Measures
During the Ashra-e-Muharram, over 38,000 Majalis and more than 9,200 mourning processions were held across Punjab. The IG emphasized that the police force provided robust security to all these events, ensuring a peaceful environment without any reported incidents. The coordination between different units of the Punjab Police, including the Chief City Police Officer (CCPO) Lahore, Regional Police Officers (RPOs), and District Police Officers (DPOs), played a crucial role in this success.
The Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, along with provincial ministers, advisors, and regional representatives, provided valuable guidance for the security arrangements. Additionally, the Special Branch, Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), and all operational units of the Punjab Police were commended for their dedicated service. The collaboration with the Pakistan Army and Rangers further strengthened the security framework during the sacred programs.
On-the-Ground Monitoring and Leadership
Dr. Usman Anwar personally oversaw the security arrangements on Ashura Day, visiting key locations such as the route of the main mourning procession emerging from Nisar Haveli. He interacted with police officers and personnel stationed at critical sites like Karbala Gamay Shah Imam Bargah, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and duty performance.
Senior police officers briefed the IG on the security measures in place for the mourning processions. Dr. Usman Anwar expressed his appreciation for the services rendered by the police personnel while encouraging them to maintain their high standards of work in the future.
Extensive Deployment of Personnel
Under the leadership of Dr. Usman Anwar, police teams across the province remained on high alert despite adverse weather conditions. A total of more than 134,000 officers and personnel ensured security for the mourning processions and Majalis, with over 15,000 deployed specifically in Lahore. On Ashura Day, 2,730 mourning processions and more than 2,772 Majalis were conducted across the province.
Here is a breakdown of the number of processions and Majalis held in various regions:
- Lahore: 46 processions and 227 Majalis
- Sheikhupura: 96 processions and 33 Majalis
- Gujranwala: 362 processions and 302 Majalis
- Rawalpindi: 202 processions and 322 Majalis
- Sargodha: 427 processions and 518 Majalis
- Faisalabad: 561 processions and 378 Majalis
- Multan: 283 processions and 223 Majalis
- Sahiwal: 119 processions and 47 Majalis
- Dera Ghazi Khan: 429 processions and 639 Majalis
- Bahawalpur: 204 processions and 83 Majalis
Additional Security Units and Resources
To ensure comprehensive coverage, the CTD deployed 700 personnel, the Special Branch 1,500, and the Traffic Police 5,570 officers for security duties. Over 33,000 community volunteers assisted with security and checking arrangements for the processions and Majalis. RPOs, CPOs, DPOs, and traffic officers supervised the security and traffic arrangements on the ground.
Special teams such as the Dolphin Squad, PRU, and Elite Force ensured effective patrolling along the routes of mourning processions and around the Imam Bargahs. The implementation of Section 144 was strictly enforced, and activities were closely monitored using cameras from the Safe City Authority and district administration. CCTV monitoring, walk-through gates, and metal detectors were used to ensure thorough checks. Lady police officers were deployed for the security of female mourners, while plain clothes commandos and snipers were stationed at strategic locations.
Enhanced Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring
On Ashura Day, Dr. Usman Anwar visited the Safe City Headquarters to review the security monitoring process for central mourning processions and important locations. The MD Safe City, Muhammad Ahsan Younas, briefed him on the arrangements, highlighting that additional portable cameras covered all sensitive locations. Police communication officers and technical teams remained on duty 24/7 to ensure seamless monitoring.
Furthermore, actions continued against individuals spreading objectionable material on social media. In the last 24 hours, 25 incidents of uploading objectionable and hateful content were reported, leading to the registration of 19 cases and the arrest of 18 lawbreakers. Over the past 7 days, 130 cases have been registered, and 148 individuals have been arrested for spreading objectionable content. Dr. Usman Anwar reiterated the commitment of the Punjab Police to curb elements promoting hatred and sectarianism on social media.
