Heightened Security Measures for Muharram: Army to Assist Civil Forces

The Interior Ministry has sanctioned the deployment of the Pakistan Army and civil armed forces (CAFs) across the country to reinforce security during Muharram.

This decision by the federal government was made following official requests from all provincial governments, including those of Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and the Islamabad Capital Territory, according to an official statement.

The deployment of troops will be carried out under Sections 4 and 5 of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997. The extent and length of these deployments will be decided by local authorities, who will assess security conditions and collaborate with both federal and provincial stakeholders.

Ashura, which marks the 10th day of Muharram, is scheduled for July 6 this year.

Given the significance of the initial ten days of the month, authorities have focused on strengthening security measures throughout the nation.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, presiding over a high-level meeting on Thursday, also declared a crackdown on hate speech, particularly on social media platforms.

The administration will collaborate with the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority to oversee and control any provocative content.

Officials also deliberated on the possibility of suspending mobile and internet services in areas considered high-risk. Any such actions will depend on up-to-date security evaluations and will be implemented in conjunction with provincial administrations.

A specialized team comprising technical experts, digital analysts, and officers tasked with monitoring hate speech has been established to scrutinize social media posts that promote religious animosity.

The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has declared that preventing incitement on social media during Muharram is a primary objective, and legal measures will be pursued against those found disseminating hatred.

The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee announced on Thursday, after receiving numerous moon-sighting reports from various locations across the country, that the Muharram 1447 Hijri moon had been sighted, confirming that Ashura will be observed on July 6 (Sunday).

Muharram holds importance as one of the four sacred months in Islam. Ashura commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), along with his family members in the Battle of Karbala.

During Muharram, faithful individuals participate in processions and majalis throughout the country. Religious scholars address large gatherings under strict security, with a significant presence of law enforcement personnel ensuring safety.

Furthermore, any decision to temporarily suspend mobile phone or internet services during the sacred Islamic month will be made in consultation with the provinces, as agreed upon during a meeting chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to assess the national security strategy.