The Punjab administration enforced Section 144 throughout the province on Saturday in response to “possible threats to public tranquility, sectarian harmony, and general law and order situation” during Muharram.
The Home Department issued an order stating that Section 144 will be in effect for the first ten days of Muharram. The legislation gives authorities the authority to impose measures in the public good, including temporary prohibitions on certain activities.
It said that distribution of sectarian materials, the carrying of weapons, hate speech, and “innovations at processions” would all be forbidden.
The ruling said that in order to stop individuals from perhaps hurling bottles, rocks, or other objects at worshipers, it would be illegal for viewers to set up “firing bays” on roofs along the procession routes.
Additionally, from Muharram 7–10, pillion riding would be prohibited, with the exception of elderly people, women, and police enforcement.
The directive issued today comes one day after the Punjab government commandeered 150 Pakistan Army and Rangers companies’ services to uphold peace and order throughout the province during Muharram.
The provincial government also requested in a letter earlier this week that six social media sites be taken offline during Muharram for around a week. The letter was sent to the interior ministry.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will ultimately decide whether or not to grant the request for an internet shutdown, according to a statement released by the interior ministry on Friday.
