Punjab Police unveils 124,000-strong security plan for peaceful Muharram observance

• A total of 47,000 majalis and mourning processions to be secured across province

• CTD, Safe City cameras, and elite units to ensure round-the-clock monitoring

• Strict enforcement of Section 144, Loudspeaker Act and Fourth Schedule surveillance

• Pillion riding ban imposed on 9th and 10th Muharram with key exemptions

 LAHORE: Punjab Police has finalized a comprehensive security plan to ensure a peaceful and secure observance of Muharramul Haram, with more than 124,000 police officers and personnel to be deployed across the province during the first 10 days of the holy month, according to the official security plan.

Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) Abdul Kareem has directed a foolproof and enhanced security strategy for mourning processions and religious gatherings (majalis) across the province, including Lahore.

According to official documents, a total of 47,280 majalis and mourning processions will be held across Punjab during the first ten days of Muharram. These include 37,868 majalis and 9,412 mourning processions scheduled for Ashura-e-Muharram, the document added.

A Punjab Police spokesperson said more than 124,000 officers and personnel will perform security duties across the province during this period. Of these, over 41,200 personnel will be deployed for the security of majalis, while more than 73,400 will be assigned to processions. In addition, over 9,500 personnel will be engaged in patrolling key routes, sensitive points, and important religious gatherings.

IGP Abdul Kareem said all available operational units, including the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), Special Branch, Traffic Police, Dolphin Squad, PRU, and other field formations, will remain actively engaged as part of the Muharram security plan. He said surveillance will be strengthened through Safe City cameras to ensure continuous monitoring of processions and gatherings.

He urged religious scholars and community leaders from all schools of thought to promote peace, brotherhood, and inter-sect harmony during Muharram-ul-Haram, adding that any attempt by anti-state elements to disturb law and order or incite sectarian tensions would be firmly countered.

The IGP directed that all matters related to processions and majalis be resolved in coordination with Peace Committees and organizers to ensure smooth arrangements. He reiterated that no procession or gathering will be allowed outside designated routes and approved venues across Lahore and other districts.

He said strict enforcement of Section 144 and the Loudspeaker Act would be ensured throughout the province. Movement of individuals listed under the Fourth Schedule will be closely monitored in view of potential security risks. All provincial security SOPs, including restrictions on speech and movement where applicable, will be implemented in letter and spirit.

IGP Abdul Kareem further said CCTV cameras, metal detectors, and walk-through gates will be installed at sensitive locations. Strict legal action will be taken against those involved in spreading hate material on social media, wall chalking, and displaying objectionable banners or posters.

A ban on pillion riding will remain in place on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, with exemptions for senior citizens, women, and law enforcement personnel.

He added that CCPO Lahore, RPOs, CPOs, and DPOs will personally supervise security arrangements. Muharram control rooms will remain operational across all districts in round-the-clock coordination with the Central Control Room at the Central Police Office.