ISLAMABAD – The federal government has approved the deployment of the Pakistan Army and paramilitary Rangers across the country to assist civil administration in ensuring law and order during Muharram.
According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Interior, the deployment will cover all four provinces as well as Islamabad, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu & Kashmir. The move comes in view of potential security threats during the sacred month, particularly in areas marked as sensitive due to sectarian tensions.
The decision follows a request from provincial governments and is aimed at supporting police and local authorities in maintaining peace during religious processions and gatherings.
High Alert in Sensitive Districts
Security has been heightened in Kurram and Kohat districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where sectarian flashpoints have been identified. A recent landmine explosion in the region, which claimed four lives, has prompted authorities to deploy additional forces, including over 10,000 personnel in these areas alone.
Key Security Measures
- Army and Rangers deployment under Article 245 of the Constitution and relevant sections of the Anti-Terrorism Act.
- Coordination with local police to safeguard processions, imambargahs, and public gatherings.
- Mobile phone service suspension and ban on pillion riding are under consideration in high-risk zones.
- Drone surveillance restrictions are also expected during the peak days of Muharram.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has stated that the government is taking all necessary steps to prevent any untoward incidents and to ensure the peaceful observance of Muharram rituals across the country.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.
