Leaders call for unity during muharram, administration ensures public welfare measures

KOHAT, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 20th Jun, 2026) Provincial Minister for Information and Public Relations Shafi Ullah Jan, former Federal Interior Minister and Member of the National Assembly Shehryar Khan Afridi, along with Members of the Provincial Assembly Dawood Shah Afridi and Aurangzeb Orakzai, have emphasized while addressing a divisional jirga convened at the Commissioner House Kohatthat inter-sect harmony is the need of the hour.

They warned that anti-state elements seek to exploit sectarian divisions for their nefarious designs, but assured that such conspiracies will be foiled through cooperation among government, scholars, and the public.

Speakers termed Muharram a month of patience, sacrifice, and steadfastness, stressing that all segments of society must fulfill their responsibilities to maintain peace and promote religious harmony. Participants pledged full cooperation with the government and security agencies, noting that mutual respect and inter-sect unity are essential for ensuring tranquility.

Shafi Jan highlighted that the provincial government has prioritized law and order, allocating Rs.131 billion in the current fiscal year for security measures.

He informed that 43,000 police personnel will be deployed across the province during Muharram to safeguard processions and congregations. Of the 614 Imambargahs in the province, 127 have been declared sensitive, while 286 of the 907 processions fall under the sensitive category, warranting enhanced security including modern surveillance systems, additional personnel, and coordinated efforts between district administrations and police.

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Shehryar Afridi lauded the people of Kohat Division for their exemplary role in promoting peace, tolerance, and brotherhood, adding that unity and solidarity during Muharram would defeat the designs of adversaries. At the conclusion of the jirga, speakers expressed confidence that with the cooperation of all stakeholders, Muharram would pass peacefully under established codes of conduct and agreements.

Meanwhile, on the directives of Deputy Commissioner Kohat Muhammad Nawaz, Ibrahim Khan, Additional Assistant Commissioner (Revenue), carried out an anti-encroachment operation on Old Jail Road to restore public pathways and ensure smooth traffic flow. Temporary encroachments were removed and individuals were instructed not to re-establish them.

On the same day, Ibrahim Khan inspected several petrol pumps near Kacheri Chowk. The inspection confirmed that petroleum products were being sold at government-notified rates and that operational arrangements were satisfactory. Staff were directed to prominently display official price lists and ensure quality service to consumers.

APP/azq/378