Home Department issues comprehensive security guidelines for Muharram

LAHORE, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 5th Jun, 2026) The Punjab Home Department on Friday issued comprehensive security guidelines for Muharram, directing authorities across the province to ensure foolproof security arrangements for Imambargahs, mourning processions and religious gatherings.

According to the directives, only approved and licensed processions and Majalis would be allowed, while all events will be held according to prescribed timings and permissions.

A spokesperson for the Punjab Home Department said special security arrangements would be made for sensitive locations, key installations, markets and other crowded areas. Comprehensive inspections of major procession routes and adjoining areas would also be conducted.

The spokesperson said effective traffic management plans would be implemented and designated parking areas would be established at least 500 yards away from Imambargahs.

He said all Niaz, Langar and Sabeel arrangements would be subject to mandatory verification by the Special Branch, Punjab food Authority and other relevant departments.

The Home Department directed authorities to ensure the installation and operation of CCTV cameras, walk-through gates, metal detectors and physical screening measures at sensitive venues and procession routes.

Special security arrangements would also be made for women mourners, with deployment of female police personnel to ensure a safe and secure environment.

The spokesperson said speakers at Majalis would not be allowed to make objectionable remarks against any sect or school of thought. Audio and video recording of all major religious gatherings and processions would be ensured.

Flag marches would be conducted in sensitive areas, while volunteers assisting law enforcement agencies would receive training and undergo mandatory clearance from the Special Branch before deployment.

The department also directed authorities to enhance surveillance through drones, particularly in border areas and riverine regions, while security plans for Chinese nationals, foreign missions and consulates would be implemented in letter and spirit.

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The spokesperson said monitoring of hotels, guest houses, inns, bus terminals and rented accommodations would be strengthened through Hotel Eye and travel Eye systems.

Markets and shops located along procession routes would remain closed after security clearance and sniper deployment would be ensured at key points where necessary.

The Home Department directed strict monitoring of individuals listed under the Fourth schedule and those associated with banned organisations. It also ordered enhanced cyber monitoring to prevent the spread of extremist, sectarian and anti-peace content.

Legal action would be taken against anyone disseminating sectarian material through social media, electronic or print media, the spokesperson warned.

The spokesperson said citizens could report objectionable online content through WhatsApp numbers 03073087777 and 03073097777.

The department also directed district administrations to identify provocative speakers and take legal measures, including restrictions on movement and public speaking where required.

The spokesperson said emergency response services, including Rescue 1122, fire brigades, bomb disposal squads and healthcare facilities, would remain on high alert throughout Muharram.

Divisional and district control rooms would operate round the clock and remain linked with the central control room to ensure timely reporting and response to any untoward incident.

The Home Department further directed local administrations to convene meetings of divisional and district peace committees, interfaith harmony committees and public liaison committees to promote communal harmony and maintain law and order during Muharram