<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<rss xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" version="2.0"><channel>
                        <title>The Express Tribune</title>
                        <atom:link href="https://tribune.com.pk/feed/muharram" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/>
                        <link>https://tribune.com.pk/feed/muharram</link>
                        <description>The Express Tribune keeps you up to date with all the latest happenings from Pakistan and across the world!</description>
                        <lastBuildDate>Sat, 06 Jun 26 01:32:44 +0500</lastBuildDate>
                        <language>en-US</language>
                        <sy:updatePeriod>hourly</sy:updatePeriod>
                        <sy:updateFrequency>1</sy:updateFrequency>
                        <generator>https://laravel.com/</generator><item>
			<title>Imam Hussain's martyrdom inspires resistance: PM Shehbaz</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2480533/imam-hussains-martyrdom-inspires-resistance-pm-shehbaz</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2480533/imam-hussains-martyrdom-inspires-resistance-pm-shehbaz#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 17 Jul 24 13:05:22 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2480533</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Prime minister calls for unity and perseverance in the face of adversity.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that the sacrifices of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) remind humanity to stand against falsehood and oppression.

In his Youm-e-Ashur message, the prime minister emphasised the profound significance of the grandson of the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) and his companions&#39; martyrdom at Karbala.

Shehbaz highlighted Imam Hussain&rsquo;s (RA) courageous resistance against Yazid&rsquo;s oppressive rule, illustrating his unwavering commitment to truth.

He cited the Holy Qur&rsquo;an, &ldquo;Do not think of those who have been killed in the way of Allah as dead. They are alive with their Lord, receiving provision&rdquo; (Surah Al-Imran, 3:169), to underscore the essence of the sacrifices made at Karbala.

Drawing parallels to contemporary struggles, the prime minister noted the hardships endured by Palestinians and the residents of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. He stressed that their sacrifices for a just cause echo the lessons of Karbala.

Addressing Pakistan&rsquo;s current economic challenges, PM Shehbaz called for patience, unity, and brotherhood. He warned against forces aiming to undermine social cohesion, urging the nation to embrace selflessness, equality, tolerance, unity, and discipline.

The premier encouraged the people to draw inspiration from Imam Hussain&rsquo;s (RA) sacrifices, advocating bravery and steadfastness in adversity. He expressed hope that Allah Almighty would guide the nation in following Imam Hussain&rsquo;s footsteps, advancing Islam and Pakistan, and overcoming all forms of hardship.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/shy1720081540-0/shy1720081540-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Imam Hussain's sacrifice teaches vital lessons: Information minister</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2480287/imam-hussains-sacrifice-teaches-vital-lessons-information-minister</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2480287/imam-hussains-sacrifice-teaches-vital-lessons-information-minister#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 16 Jul 24 15:11:21 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2480287</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Attaullah Tarar says battle between truth and falsehood continues today.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Information Minister Attaullah Tarar emphasised the significance of Imam Hussain&rsquo;s sacrifice, stating that great sacrifices are essential for great causes.

Speaking during his visit to an Imambargah to review security arrangements in Islamabad on tuesday, he highlighted that the incident of Karbala teaches that no tyrant should be allowed to distort the truth.

Tarar noted that the courage, patience, and prudence of Imam Hussain&rsquo;s companions serve as a beacon of light. He stressed that the battle between truth and falsehood continues today, and the spirit of self-sacrifice is more necessary than ever.

The minister inspected the route of the procession and reviewed security measures during the Majalis. He met with organisers and mourners, receiving a briefing from Syed Khurram Abbas Naqvi, the administrator of Imambargah Kashan Abbas, about the security arrangements.

Tarar expressed satisfaction with the arrangements and commended the administration for maintaining contact with all schools of thought to ensure peace during Muharram.

He assured that police and administration are on high alert, with fool-proof measures in place for the safety of participants in Majalis and processions.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/APP57-100624InfoMinsiter-Islamabad-768x4981720194662-0/APP57-100624InfoMinsiter-Islamabad-768x4981720194662-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Muscat terrorist attack claims lives of four Pakistanis, several injured</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2480276/muscat-terrorist-attack-claims-lives-of-four-pakistanis-several-injured</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2480276/muscat-terrorist-attack-claims-lives-of-four-pakistanis-several-injured#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 16 Jul 24 12:58:24 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2480276</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Foreign Office says embassy officials coordinating with local authorities to assist victims and grieving families]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Foreign Office confirmed the death of four Pakistanis in a terrorist attack on an Imambargah in Muscat on Tuesday.

The attack occurred at the Majlis-e-Aza (mourning assembly) held at Ali bin Abu Talib Imambargah in Wadi Kabir area, leaving an additional 30 Pakistanis injured and receiving medical treatment.

Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch condemned the cowardly act, expressing Pakistan&#39;s grief and solidarity with the victims.

She stated that the Pakistani embassy in Oman is coordinating with local authorities to identify and repatriate the bodies of the deceased. A helpline has been established for the Pakistani community in Oman, providing assistance and answering queries.



https://www.facebook.com/PakinOman/videos/859533772888564/



The Oman government has successfully thwarted further attacks and assured that investigations are underway to bring the perpetrators to justice. Following the attack, Omani security forces quickly cordoned off the mosque and the injured were rushed to nearby hospitals.

In a video, Ambassador Imran Ali talked about visiting local hospitals to check on the injured and ensure they receive the best care.

Local media reports indicate that the shooting caused a stampede, resulting in additional injuries as people were trampled that resulted in the death of two Pakistani nationals.

Pakistan has offered full support to Omani authorities in the investigation, particularly during the sacred month of Muharram.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/BeFunky-collage---2024-07-16T151913-2121721125186-0/BeFunky-collage---2024-07-16T151913-2121721125186-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Punjab bans entry of fiery religious speakers during Muharram to maintain order</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2479409/punjab-bans-entry-of-fiery-religious-speakers-during-muharram-to-maintain-order</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2479409/punjab-bans-entry-of-fiery-religious-speakers-during-muharram-to-maintain-order#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 13 Jul 24 14:16:39 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[news.desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2479409</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Home department announces a 15-day ban on fiery speakers and religious scholars from across the country]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Punjab government has imposed a ban on the entry of religious scholars and speakers into the province during Muharram to ensure peace and order, according to a statement by the Punjab Home Department on Saturday.

The department announced a 15-day ban on fiery speakers and religious scholars from across the country, prohibiting their stay and speeches in Punjab during this period.

According to the Home Department, approximately fifteen speakers and scholars from Sindh, including Asad Talib Johari, Amin Shahidi, Shahenshah Naqvi, and Nasir Abbas Naqvi, have been barred from entering Punjab.

Also read:&nbsp;Punjab plans comprehensive Muharram security

Additionally, from Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Mufti Kifayatullah and Khalil Ahmad Siraj, along with seven other speakers and scholars, face similar restrictions. Four speakers and scholars from Islamabad, including Maulana Abdul Aziz and Sakhawat Ali, are also prohibited from entering the province.

The Home Department further stated that one fiery speaker and scholar each from Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan are also banned from entering Punjab.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Muharram-procession1598706162-0/Muharram-procession1598706162-0.png" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Balochistan government enhances security for Muharram, suspends mobile services</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2479343/balochistan-government-enhances-security-for-muharram-suspends-mobile-services</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2479343/balochistan-government-enhances-security-for-muharram-suspends-mobile-services#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 13 Jul 24 06:12:03 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2479343</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Home minister Meer Ziaullah Langau says 8,000 security personnel to be deployed in Quetta on Ashura.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Balochistan government has announced the suspension of mobile phone and internet services in Quetta on Muharram 7 and 10 and imposed Section 144 in seven districts as part of steps to scale up security measures during Muharram.

Balochistan Home Minister Meer Ziaullah Langau stated on Friday that cellular and internet services will be suspended from 6 am to midnight on these days.

Muharram, which began on July 8, sees faithful holding processions and majalis nationwide, with religious scholars addressing large gatherings under tight security. Thousands of law enforcers are deployed to ensure safety during these events.

During a review of security arrangements in Quetta, Langau revealed that 8,000 security personnel will be deployed in the city on Ashura, the 10th of Muharram. Additionally, five Quick Response Force platoons of the Pakistan Army will be on standby.

Mobile services will also be suspended in Jhal Magsi, Jaffarabad, and Usta Muhammad districts on Muharram 9 and 10. The provincial government has banned pillion riding and imposed Section 144 from Muharram 1 to 10 in seven districts.

Langau emphasised the government&rsquo;s responsibility to maintain law and order, confirming that security arrangements for Muharram have been finalized.

On July 8, the federal government approved the deployment of the Pakistan Army and Civil Armed Forces (CAF) nationwide as a security measure for Muharram.

According to an interior ministry notification, the details of troop deployment will be finalized with the relevant authorities, and the date for ending the deployment will be decided after mutual consultation among all stakeholders.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/lageu1720851426-0/lageu1720851426-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>PM Shehbaz directs enhanced security coordination during Muharram</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2479186/pm-shehbaz-directs-enhanced-security-coordination-during-muharram</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2479186/pm-shehbaz-directs-enhanced-security-coordination-during-muharram#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Jul 24 15:05:55 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2479186</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Military deployment approved to maintain law and order, strict monitoring of social media ordered]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for improved harmony and coordination with provinces, including Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir, to ensure security during Muharram, particularly on Ashura.

He conveyed these instructions during a meeting with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi in Islamabad, where they discussed the law and order situation.

PM Shehbaz emphasised the need for strict monitoring of social media to curb the surge in hate speech and religious incitement.

A recent directive from the Ministry of Interior highlighted concerns about growing sectarian divides exacerbated by inflammatory content online, which poses a significant risk of escalating violence.

In response to these threats, the federal government has ordered Chief Secretaries and Inspectors General of Police across all provinces to implement stringent social media monitoring.

The aim is to prevent the spread of hateful and blasphemous content that fuels militancy and sectarian unrest.

The Interior Ministry has also authorised the deployment of military and paramilitary forces to assist civil administration in maintaining law and order during Muharram.

This measure is part of a broader strategy to ensure peace and security throughout the holy month, with specific deployments coordinated based on provincial requirements.

Additionally, the government has declared public holidays on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, corresponding to July 16 and 17, to commemorate Ashura.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/2666791-image-1720790266-860-640x4801720797662-0/2666791-image-1720790266-860-640x4801720797662-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Government orders strict monitoring of social media to curb hate speech during Muharram</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2479055/government-orders-strict-monitoring-of-social-media-to-curb-hate-speech-during-muharram</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2479055/government-orders-strict-monitoring-of-social-media-to-curb-hate-speech-during-muharram#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Jul 24 06:25:59 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2479055</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Move aims to avoid growing sectarian divides within country that leads to escalating violence]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The federal government has issued directives to the Chief Secretaries and Inspectors General of Police of all four provinces, as well as Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, to implement stringent monitoring of social media platforms in the holy month of Muharram.

A letter from the Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Interior highlights a concerning surge in hate speech and religious incitement on social media, noting that such activities indicate growing sectarian divides within the country and pose a significant risk of escalating violence.

The communication warns that the nation is currently facing a new wave of militancy fueled by the spread of hateful and blasphemous content on social media. Given the present situation, the country cannot afford any sectarian unrest.

The letter emphasises the need for the monitoring of all sectarian organisations, associated elements, and incendiary speakers linked to militancy on social media.

The district administration of Islamabad had earlier imposed a ban on 27 religious scholars from various sects, prohibiting them from delivering sermons and speeches during the holy month.

The administration&#39;s decision aims to maintain peace and security during Muharram, a period that often sees heightened religious activities and gatherings.

Moreover, the interior ministry issued an order approving the deployment of the military on the request of all provincial governments, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, in maintaining law and order in the country during the holy month of Muharram.







&nbsp;]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/social-media-services-disruption1704635156-0/social-media-services-disruption1704635156-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Muharram 2024: Govt announces public holidays on Ashura</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2478134/muharram-2024-govt-announces-public-holidays-on-ashura</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2478134/muharram-2024-govt-announces-public-holidays-on-ashura#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 09 Jul 24 08:54:31 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2478134</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Army personnel deployed for Muharram security duties and maintaining law and order]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The federal government on Tuesday announced a two-day public holiday for the 9th and 10th of Muharram, effective from Tuesday, July 16, to Wednesday, July 17.

&quot;[&hellip;] the Prime Minister is pleased to declare 16th and 17th July, 2024 (Tuesday and Wednesday) as public holidays on the occasion of Ashura (9th &amp; 10th Moharram 1446 AH),&quot; a notification issued by the Cabinet Division stated.

Muslims worldwide will commemorate this religious occasion with deep sadness and solemnity.

To ensure security in this Islamic month, the government has called in military and paramilitary personnel to assist the civil administration in maintaining law and order in the country.

&nbsp;







&nbsp;

The federal government authorized the deployment of army troops and civil armed forces under Sections 4 and 5 of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997, for Muharram security duties in aid of civil power, the order states.

&ldquo;The exact number, date and area of deployment &hellip; will be worked out by the provincial governments &hellip; in consultation with concerned stakeholders/authorities on the basis of on-ground requirement/assessment. The date of de-requisitioning of said deployment will be decided subsequently after mutual consultation among all stakeholders,&rdquo; the order said.

Earlier on July 5, the Punjab government requested the interior ministry to shut down internet services and social media apps including Facebook, TikTok, and WhatsApp, along with other applications from Muharram 6 to 11 to control the dissemination of hate material and misinformation in a bid to avoid sectarian violence, as reported by the media.

However, the government turned down the provinces&#39; request to block these platforms and instead emphasised bolstering security measures during Muharramul Haram.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/asc1720516451-0/asc1720516451-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Muharram moon not sighted, Ashura on July 17</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2477221/muharram-moon-not-sighted-ashura-on-july-17</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2477221/muharram-moon-not-sighted-ashura-on-july-17#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 06 Jul 24 14:38:48 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[news.desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2477221</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[First Muharram, which is also the first day of Hijri year 1446, will commence on Monday, July 8]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Muharramul Haram crescent has not been sighted and Youm-e-Ashur (10th of Muharram) will be observed on Wednesday, July 17 across Pakistan, the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee announced on Saturday.

The first of Muharram &ndash; which is also the first day of Hijri year 1446, according to the Islamic calendar &ndash; will commence on Monday, July 8.

The announcement was made following a meeting for the moon sighting, chaired by Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Chairman Maulana Muhammad Abdul Khabir Azad, in Quetta.

Members of Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, Ministry of Religious Affairs, Department of Meteorology, SUPARCO and representatives of the Ministry of Science and Technology attended the meeting.

The provincial and district moon sighting committees also held their meetings simultaneously at their respective headquarters.

Muharram is the month of mourning for the seventh-century martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and his family and companions during the battle of Karbala.

Also read:&nbsp;PMD indicates Muharram moon unlikely to be visible today

Security is beefed up across the country for the many processions taken out by the believers.

The country has seen a raft of attacks at imambargahs and processions in the past.

Earlier, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) had indicated that it is unlikely the Muharram moon will be visible on Saturday.

In a statement, the PMD noted that the new moon of Muharram is expected to be born at the conjunction point at 03:57 PST on July 6.

Given the astronomical parameters, there is no chance of sighting the new moon on the evening of July 6, corresponding to the 29th of Zilhaj 1445 AH.

Additionally, the PMD forecasts partly cloudy to cloudy weather in most parts of the country, which may further impact the visibility of the moon.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/61629231001-0/61629231001-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Pillion riding banned in Sindh for Muharram 9 and 10</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2475075/pillion-riding-banned-in-sindh-for-muharram-9-and-10</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2475075/pillion-riding-banned-in-sindh-for-muharram-9-and-10#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 29 Jun 24 05:49:04 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2475075</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Ban will also be imposed on carrying and displaying weapons, holding processions and majalis without permit]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Sindh government has imposed a ban on pillion riding throughout the province on Muharram 9 and 10 to ensure peace and law enforcement during the sacred month of Muharram.

A notification has been issued in this regard.

However, exceptions to the pillion riding ban include women, children under 12 years old, senior citizens, individuals with disabilities, journalists, law enforcement personnel and private security agents in uniform, as well as essential services employees.

Additionally, under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), the government has prohibited the carrying and display of weapons, and the organization of processions and Majalis without official permission in Sindh until Ashura.

During Muharram 1 to 10, authorities in Sindh have been instructed to take appropriate measures regarding the following:


	
	Use of Loudspeakers in contravention of &ldquo;The Sindh Sound System (Regulation) Act 2015&rdquo;;
	
	
	Speechs, wall chalking, posters, banners, leaflets, audios, videos etc spewing hatred and violence;
	
	
	Presence of any unwarranted person on roof-top during Muharram events;
	
	
	Processions / Rallies / Majalis / Jalsa / Tazia without permit;
	
	
	Assembly of five persons or more except Muharram Processions / Rallies / Majalis / Jalsa / Tazia;
	
	
	Pillion riding;
	
	
	Carrying of Arms/ Ammunition except personnel of LEAs and private security agencies on duty;
	
	
	Use of Helicams / drones;
	


Furthermore, the notification stated that all permits issued by the Home Department, Sindh, allowing the carrying of weapons in exemption to the ban under Section 144 of the CrPC, will be temporarily revoked during the mentioned period.

According to the instructions, Station House Officers (SHOs) of respective police stations are authorized to formally document complaints under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) against individuals who violate Section 144 of the CrPC as per the notification.

Meanwhile, in Punjab, the Interior Ministry has identified 502 locations as sensitive, and announced that processions or gatherings from the first to the tenth day of Muharram will only be permitted at specified sites where all activities will be closely monitored.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/pillion-riding-NHD1598762353-0/pillion-riding-NHD1598762353-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Marsiya - The poetry of pathos</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2430575/marsiya-the-poetry-of-pathos</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2430575/marsiya-the-poetry-of-pathos#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 12 Aug 23 23:13:33 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Mujtaba Javaid]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2430575</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Marsiya writing acquired uniqueness in Urdu literature in Deccan in the 19th century]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Throughout history, elegies have been composed in different languages. Shakespeare&rsquo;s works, Grey&rsquo;s Elegy in a Country Graveyard, the 400 verses of Mr John Pong on the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS) and Mrs Sarojini Naidu&rsquo;s Shab-i-Shahadat are different forms of elegies, according to Dr Syed Ali Imam Zaidi Gauhar Lakhnawi, an Indian writer, poet and scholar.

The term &quot;marsiya&quot; typically evokes thoughts of the martyrs of Karbala. However, compositions that lament and honour Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions who were martyred are commonly referred to as Karbalai marsiya. Prior to the emergence of Urdu, numerous poets composed marsiya in Arabic and Persian. According to the book Marsiye Ka Safar by Ashoor Kazmi, historical records highlight how Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) composed verses upon the passing of his uncle Hazrat Abu Talib (AS). Likewise, upon the demise of the Prophet (PBUH), elegies were written by his daughter Hazrat Fatima (AS). The illuminative instances collectively illustrate the nature and significance of these melancholic compositions.

The history of marsiya is intertwined with the cultural and literary developments of the Persian-speaking world, particularly within the context of Shia Islam. The works of classical Persian poets such as Ferdowsi, Nezami, and Saadi include verses mourning the deaths of heroes and lamenting tragedies. These themes laid the groundwork for the development of more explicit elegies centred on the events of Karbala.

Similar to its Persian counterpart, the history of Arabic marsiya is deeply rooted in the cultural and religious contexts of the Islamic world. The tradition of Arabic marsiya continued to develop during the medieval period and prominent Islamic scholars, poets, and literary figures contributed to this tradition by using their creativity to express the sorrow and emotional intensity associated with Karbala.

&ldquo;Urdu marsiya pioneered in Deccan where it was said in banniya andaaz in the form of couplets,&rdquo; shares Johar Abbas, a professor, poet and marsiya writer. &ldquo;Before this era marsiya writers were brushed aside and the phrase &lsquo;bigra shaayir marsiya goh&rsquo; was actually a taunt for poets who wrote marsiya. This was the time when Mir Taqi Mir and Mir Sauda were famous poets.

In his book Beesween Sadi Mein Jadeed Marsiya, Dr Hilal Naqvi writes that Sikandar Punjabi changed the two-verse marsiya to six verses, which is the latest form of marsiya. Maulana Altaf Hussain Hali was influenced by the six-verse style ― each stanza comprises six lines, each with a distinct rhyming scheme ― and adopted it in Musaddas-e-Hali. Nonetheless, in subsequent epochs, liberating itself from constraints, marsiya writing embraced diverse formats, but the musaddas style remained a preference.

Deccan and the classical marsiya 

The emerging period of Urdu marsiya highlights Mirza Jaffar Faseeh, Mir Mustehsan Khaleeq, Chunnu Lal Dilgeer and Mir Zameer. A student of Mir Zameer, Mirza Salamat Ali Dabeer praised his own marsiya writing as follows:

Das main kahoon, sau main kahoon 

Yeh vird hai mera

Jo bhi kahe, iss tarz main, shagird hai mera

&ldquo;It is said that initially, classical marsiya was like a painting,&rdquo; says Abbas. &ldquo;After reading or hearing a recitation of the marsiya, one could vividly imagine the Karbala incident. Mir Zameer outlined the structure of writing marsiya such as chehra, rukhsat, aamad, sarapa, rajaz, tang, shahadat and bann.&rdquo;

Anees and Dabeer were aware that poets often encountered disparaging comments, which prompted them to shift the direction of the genre of marsiya and infuse it with fresh theological perspectives. They made significant efforts to refine idioms and contribute novel expressions to Urdu literature through their marsiya compositions. Anees and Dabeer&#39;s influence led Mirza Ghalib to compose his sole marsiya, which is a departure from his typical works, and showcases the duo&rsquo;s profound impact.

Haan aye nafs-e-bad-e-sahar shola fishaan ho

Aye Dajla-e-khoon chasm-e-malaik se rawaan ho

Aye zamzama-e-qum lab-e-Eesa pe fighan ho

Aye matam-e-yaan-e-shah-e-mazloom kahan ho

Bigrri hai bauhot baat banaye nahi banti

Ab ghar ko baghair aag lagaye nahi lagti

Abbas elaborated how Anees and Dabeer had created merits on marsiya writing so that classical marsiya was focused on specific words for a specific situation, without compromise on the merit of its meaning and proper placement as per the structure given by Dabeer.

According to Dr Syed Ali Imam, prior to Anees and Dabeer, poetry was limited to faith, discipline, unity in Islam, the Oneness of Allah, namaz, Prophet (PBUH)&rsquo;s naat, and manqabaat of Hazrat Ali (AS), but Anees and Dabeer brought to it the feel of spring, autumn, swords, and Zuljanah in the form of marsiya. &ldquo;With Mir Anees&rsquo;s son Mir Khurshid Ali, Lucknow became the hub of marsiya poets,&rdquo; he says. &ldquo;And one after another, new poets emerged.&rdquo;

After Anees and Dabeer passed away, marsiya poetry entered into Dabistan, a new era, and Dabistan-e-Anees, Dabistan-e-Dabeer, Dabistan-e-Rasheed, Dabistan-e-Ishq and Khandaan-e-Ijtehad followed and marsiya writing flourished. While Nafees, Jalees and Arif were renowned names in Dabistan-e-Anees; Dabistan-e-Dabeer had Auj and Shaad brandishing the flag of marsiya. Dabistan-e-Ishq comprised Ishq, Tashq, Pyaray Shab Rasheed and Shadeed, whose works powered the flow of marsiya in this period.

From classical to practical marsiya

In his book Josh ke Inqilabi Marsiye, Dr Hilal Naqvi writes that Josh was not religious but deeply influenced by his environment. Substantiating this, Abbas says that by comparing the independence of Muslims in the Subcontinent to the Karbala incident, Josh gave marsiya a practical form. This was the time when classical marsiya was dying and Josh&rsquo;s Hussain aur inqilab which was clear message against the tyrannic British rule. Since his point of view on Karbala was different and rested on practical values, instead of being focused on the previously trodden narrative of mourning and &lsquo;sawab,&rsquo; it instantly appealed to people and drew them closer to Imam Hussain (AS).

Rona buzdili ki alaamat hai

Josh also penned the following:

Jo jawan betay ki mayyat pe na roya woh Hussain 

He portrayed the British rulers as tyrants and in the context of Karbala, he tried to convince Muslims to confront the Yazid of their time.

Lashkaron ko rond sakte hain bahattar admi

Jo ek nishan-e-tashna dehani tha woh Hussain

Gaiti pey arsh ki jo nishani tha woh Hussain

Jo khuld ka ameer-e-jawani tha woh Hussain

Jo ek san-e-jadeed ka bani tha woh Hussain

Jis ka lahu talatum-e-pinhaa&rsquo;n liye huway

Har boond mein tha Nooh ka toofan liye huway

Shibli&rsquo;s work

Muwazana-e-Anees-o-Dabeer by Maulana Shibli Nomani (1907) is known as the first critical analysis of poetry in where Maulana Shibli compared Anees and Dabeer. Many critics of this book feel that it has more content from Anees than Dabeer, which is a huge favour to Anees. Shibli wrote about different aspects of Urdu poetry and readily quoted Mir Anees while Dabeer is mostly mentioned where there was a lack of completion in the phrase. However, both Anees and Dabeer had an equal following and their followers were known as Aneesiya and Dabeeriya. Considering Shibli&rsquo;s prowess in Arabic, Persian and, it is believed that this book was purchased by all poetry lovers and writers of the time. Ofcourse, it was more popular among followers of Anees, as it reflected Shibli&rsquo;s preference for him.

However, Shibli mentions that in the later stages of his poetry, Dabeer mirrored a glimpse of Anees, which could also been seen in what Dabeer said about Anees, after his death:

Aasman bay maah-e-kaamil, sidrah bay rooh ul ameen

Toor-e-seena bay Kaleemullah, mimbar bay Anees

[A sky without the moon, the heavens without Gabriel

The mountain of Sinai without Moses, are all like poetry without Anees]

However, it is debatable whether Shibli favoured Anees, because that might have led him to alter the title of the book, but some scholars believe that Dabeer seems to have been shortchanged. A book called Rad ul Mawazna (writer not known) was written in the same year with a discussion on how Shibli was biased about Dabeer. Despite being somewhat a personal attack on Shibli, Rad ul Mawazna did not become popular the way Shibli&rsquo;s book did.

While reviewing Shibli&rsquo;s Muwazana-e-Anees-o-Dabeer on YouTube, Dr Tauseef Khan says that in 1914, Al-Meezan by Chaudhry Nazeer-ul-Hasan flaunted Dabeer&rsquo;s stronger side to balance the disregard in Shibli&rsquo;s book. Interestingly, he also mentions Shibli&rsquo;s letter to Chaudhry Nazeer, appreciating his efforts on highlighting the stronger side of Dabeer&rsquo;s poetry. Similar to what Shibli had done to Dabeer work in his critique, Al-Meezan included poetry by Anees with minute mistakes.

Interestingly, after Mawazna-e-Anees-o-Dabeer, poets began to cross check their poetry before publishing it.

Jadeed or modern marsiya

Modern marsiya has a topic which was absent in classical form, which had a format. Modern marsiya poets including Najam Effendi, Shahid Naqvi, Shadan Dehalvi, Dr Hilal Naqvi and Yadullah Haider were preceded by Naseem Amrohi who tried to create poetry in its latest form. After Mirza Dabeer, Amrohi wrote marsiya on death of 12 imams, whereas Anees had only written marsiya on Karbala and Imam Hussain (AS).

&nbsp;

Dr Muhammad Reza Kazmi, author of The Blood of Hussain, describes another modern form of marsiya, the philosophical marsiya. Allama Jameel Mazhari wrote marsiya on pattern of Iqbal&rsquo;s Shikwa and Jawab-e-Shikwa. His marsiya questioned the reasons that led to the battle of Karbala.

Professor Dr Hilal Naqvi divides Jameel Mazhari&rsquo;s marsiya writing into four different eras. The first being 1930-1940, when Irfan-e-ishq and Payaiman-e-wafa were written. The second era 1942-1951, when Mazhari wrote Azm-e-mohkam and Muzraab-e-shahadat. He wrote Arbaab-e-Wafa, Afsaana-e-Hasti and Sham-e-gharibaan in the third era 1952-63. In the last era 1963-1980, Mazhari changed his poetry into musaddas, inspired from Musaddas-e-Hali, and wrote Lamha-e-ghaur, Alamdar-e-wafa and Haqeeqat noor-o-naar.

Comparing Karbala to his time, Mazhari highlighted the lessons we need to learn from Karbala, apart from azadari. He portrayed Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions as real life heroes. This element was missing in the classical form of marsiya writing, because it was limited to the battle of Karbala and the hardships faced by Imam Hussain (AS).

According to Dr Kazmi, Syed Aale Raza is one poet who described Imam Hussain (AS) as a lawyer. Born in UP India, Syed Aale Raza moved to Pakistan and was the first person to recite marsiya in a majlis in Pakistan, post-independence.

Taskeen deh andooh-e-nihaan majlis hai

Gham apna bauhot hai jahan majlis hai

Allah re ghareeb-ul-watani ka aalam

Hum poochte phirthe hain kahan majlis hai

&nbsp;

Dr Muhammad Reza Kazmi critiques the journey of marsiya 

The elegy devoted to the tragedy of Karbala adopted in Urdu language in Deccan was brief, but most evocative. In Delhi, Shah Hatim chose the six-line stanza, but it could only gain universal acceptance in Awadh, where in the second generation of Lucknow masters led by Anees and Dabeer succeeded in making the marsiya akin to an epic. In terms of depiction these have remained master pieces. 

The progeny of Anees though extremely polished in expression were subservient to the family tradition. Dabeer&rsquo;s son, Mirza Auj challenged literary convention and used the marsiya a vehicle for social protest. 

With the advent of the 20th century, two non-conformists and egalitarians Josh Malihabadi and Jameel Mazhari elevated Urdu marsiya to an art form against British rule. After Independence Ale Raza, Naseem Amrohvi, Zeba Rudolvi, Yawar Abbas and Safdar Husain emerged as prominent marsiya poets, while Dr Hilal Naqvi, Ahmed Naved, Shahab Safdar and Akhtar Usman are notable present-day marsiya poets. 

&nbsp;

The writer is a freelance journalist and a communication and events expert 

All facts and information are the sole responsibility of the writer

&nbsp;

Special thanks to Zahoor Book Centre Quetta, Dr Muhammad Reza Kazmi &amp; Syed Johar Abbas

References: Marsiye ka Safar by Syed Ashoor Kazmi and Farogh-e-Marsiya by Asghar Mehdi

&nbsp;]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Muharram-NHD-1597559036-21691887012-0/Muharram-NHD-1597559036-21691887012-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Echoes of Karbala through art</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2429534/echoes-of-karbala-through-art</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2429534/echoes-of-karbala-through-art#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 06 Aug 23 09:44:26 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Lulu Lokhandwala]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2429534</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[The historical significance of Muharram resonates through the solemn majlis to the vibrant taziya and alam]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The memory of the Battle of Karbala is as old as time itself. According to a hadith in Bihar Al-Anwar [a comprehensive collection of traditions or ahadith compiled by Shia scholar Mohammad-Baqer Majlesi ] Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) once gave his wife, Hazrat Umme-Salma a sack full of sand from Karbala. He told her that Allah had foretold the shahadat [martyrdom] of his grandson Imam Hussain in Karbala and that she should keep the sand safe with her until the day that she sees that the sand has taken the colour of blood. That day she would know that Imam Hussain had been slain.

The Battle of Karbala has been regarded as one of the most significant events in Islamic history by both Shias and Sunnis. The battle took place in the city of Karbala in Iraq, on Muharram 10, 61AH (680 AD), on the banks of the River Euphrates. This battle is considered to be the epitome of the fight between good and evil, where Yazid I had sent troops of thousands of men against a small group of 72 men and the harem led by Imam Hussain. On Muharrum 7, the Yazidi Army shut off water and food access for them and on Muharrum 10, the battle started and ended by asr time [late afternoon] with the death of Imam Hussain (AS).



When Imam Hussain (AS)&rsquo;s son, Imam Ali Zain-ul-Abedin (AS) finally entered Madinah, after being released from the jail in Yazid&rsquo;s palace in Damascus, the first majlis preceded, mourning the Ahl-ul-Bayt [the family of the Prophet] and all the atrocities borne by them. The tradition of grieving and mourning in the first 10 days of Muharram leading up to the chehlum (the 40th day of passing, an important observation after death) has carried on ever since.

The history of Islam and the Indian Sub-continent goes back to the time of Hazrat Ali (AS) when missionaries were sent to preach Islam. They entered through the Makran coast and had some success in Sindh. The first majlis held in South Asia is said to have been observed during the Fatimid Rule in Multan (972-1026), which then was considered to be a part of Sindh. The Fatimid Caliphs trace their lineage from the Prophet (PBUH)&rsquo;s daughter Hazrat Fatima (AS) and through her son Imam Hussain (AS).

After the Fatimids were removed from Sindh by Ghanzavids, the Muharram observations were violently suppressed. The Ghaznavids were backed by the Abbasids who were vehemently opposed to the Shias and there were massacres which almost eliminated the entire Ismaili population in the Subcontinent. But with the arrival of the Mughals, Muharrum processions were brought in with full fervour. Especially when Humayun regained control of the subcontinent after defeating Sher Shah Suri, he allocated many lands for building Imam Barrahs and supported Muharram processors. Before, when Humayun had been exiled by Sher Shah Suri he was taken under the wing of the Safavids and he converted to the Shia faith. Whether or not Humayun converted for political reasons is up for debate, but he set a precedent for Muharram commemorations for his descendants.

During the time of Akbar, Muharrum processions were also an important event which even the Emperor participated. Public mourning of Muharram in Mughals continued in Mughal cities until Aurangzeb came along. The central space of Muharrum celebrations in the subcontinent was Lucknow where Nawab Asif-ud-Daulah created spaces for Muharrum observances and held Majalis in his courts where he donned the garment of mourning alongside his officials. Tipu Sultan also commemorated Muharram with dedication. Similarly, many other regions in South Asia, such as Kashmir were holding large jaloos [processions] and majalis during this time.



Muharrum celebrations caught the special attention of colonials to whom massive gatherings of mourning and its arts were extremely fascinating. There are many accounts of British colonials describing the scenes of Muharrum. Rudyard Kipling describes the scene of the Ashura procession as follows:

&ldquo;&hellip; and beating their breasts, the brass bands were playing their loudest, and at every corner where space allowed, Mohammedan preachers were telling the lamentable story of the death of the Martyrs. It was impossible to move except with the crowd.&rdquo;

They were enraptured by the scene of the Indian cities and courts. But as they came to power, Muharrum processions appeared to them as an opposition to their authority as flocks of people gathered making urban regions beyond their control. This made the insecure and many restrictions and oppressions of such activity came about. Although back in their own land, Muharrum was portrayed as this exotic event of the unruly Orient, where colourful postcards depicting the jaloos were very popular. To quench their colonial fantasies, many paintings and illustrations were produced to show the &ldquo;quirks&rdquo; of India. For this reason, the genre of Company Paintings has perhaps the largest number of paintings created on the subject.

While in common understanding the observance of Muharram may be linked with Shia Muslims, but in reality that has never been the case. Sunnis and Hindus in the subcontinent have been known to play a significant role in the rituals of Muharram and their contributions can be observed alongside the Shias through art and traditions throughout the history of South Asia.



Within the arts of Muharram, perhaps the most important of them all is poetry in the form of noha, marsiya, and soaz. These forms of poetry tell the tale of Karbala and all that happened to the family of Imam Hussain and his companions. One of the most popular marsiyas today date back to the 18th century and was written by a Hindu poet, who later converted to Islam. This noha is &lsquo;Ghabraye gi Zainab, written by Munshi Chunoolal, and is recited at Shaam-e-Ghareeban majlis even today.

Other Urdu and Persian poets were also writing verses on the subject for centuries. The first marsiya in Urdu was written by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, in the 1500s, who writes:

&ldquo;Come O! Muharram, let us cry and grieve and shed our blood remembering our Imam&rdquo;

The most famous writer of Urdu marsiya is Mir Anees was from Lucknow and the legacy of the azadari [mourning] in this region still lives through him. Similarly, his contemporary, Ghalib also wrote verses in the praise of Imam Hussain (AS). His affiliation with Imam Hussain (AS) and by extension the Panjatan [The Blessed Five] comes from his mother, who was a Kashmiri, and Kashmir a Shia majority region.

Another tradition of the Muharram azadari is the taziya. Taziyas are structures built over the first nine days of Muharrum and then taken out in processions on the day of Ashura, which is the 10th day of Muharrum, the day of Battle of Karbala. The word &lsquo;taziya&rsquo; comes from the Arabic word &lsquo;taziyat&rsquo;, meaning offering condolences. A taziya is a structure that represents the tomb of Imam Hussain (AS) in Karbala. It is believed that when the infamous ancestor of the Mughals, Tamerlane, was returning to Central Asia from the ziyarat [pious visitation] of Karbala, he wanted to build a structure that represented the mausoleum and could remind everyone of the sufferings of Karbala. So he built the first taziya in Delhi. Some say that the taziya at Nizamuddin Auliya&rsquo;s darbar is the one that Tamerlane built. Taziyas were then made famous by Nawab of Lucknow, Asif-ud-Daulah. Another famous region known for its taziyas is Chiniot, where master craftsmen have been building exquisitely carved taziyas for generations.

&nbsp;

Alam-e-Abbas is another prominent artefact from the processions in Muharram. The alam is the flag that represents an army. Hazrat Abbas (AS) was the brother of Imam Hussain (AS) and the commander and chief of his army. He was carrying the alam in the battle and on his way to fetch water from the Euphrates, where he was martyred, both of his hands were cut. Therefore, an alam usually features an ornate symbol of a hand at the top. On the flag part of the alam the name Ya Abbas, Ya Hussain or Ya Ali is written.

&nbsp;

The alam was introduced in 1380 by an Iranian Sufi saint, Syed Khawaja Syed Makhdoom Ashraf Jahangir Semnani. A famous painting from the time of Nawab Asif ud Daulah shows the court in mourning. The background is decorated with alams of red and green. Bihar-ul-Anwar talks about the significance of these colours, with green representing Imam Hasan (AS) who was given poison by conspiracy and red the colour of Imam Hussain (AS) and his sacrifice in Karbala.

&nbsp;

Muharrum celebrations are deeply tied with the identities of Muslims in South Asia, with the majlis and jaloos being religious celebrations of both Sunnis and Shia. Not only do they mourn the death of the Prophet (PBUH)&rsquo;s grandson, but celebrate the eternal victory of good over evil, because for as long as people weep over the sajda of Hussain (AS), the evils of Yazid and ibn Ziyad are vanquished. Hussaini Brahmins, a sect of Hindus, bring solidarity to this cause by participating in this lamentation. Art has become an essential practice of mourning and continues even today with poetry, taziya, and alams.

&nbsp;

The writer is a visual artist and researcher. You can follow her work on Instagram @luluwa.lokhandwala

&nbsp;

All facts and information are the sole responsibility of the writer]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Art-of-muharram-21691316238-0/Art-of-muharram-21691316238-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Ashura processions conclude peacefully across the country</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2428469/ashura-processions-conclude-peacefully-across-the-country</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2428469/ashura-processions-conclude-peacefully-across-the-country#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 29 Jul 23 07:48:55 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[news.desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2428469</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Mourning processions were taken out in different cities in all four provinces amid stringent security arrangements]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Yaum-e-Ashur, the 10th of Muharram, is being observed across the country on Saturday to pay homage to the supreme sacrifice rendered by Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his devoted companions in Karbala.

Mourning processions were taken out in different cities and towns in all four provinces amid stringent security arrangements, with mobile phones and internet services affected in various areas marked sensitive.

Different provinces have also enlisted the services of the Frontier Corps (FC) and the paramilitary Rangers with troops deployed at various points along with provincial and district police personnel.

The processions culminated at pre-designated locations for observance of Shaam-e-Ghariban, where Ulema and Zakireen recalled events from Karbala and the teachings of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and other martyrs of the tragedy.

The main Zuljinnah procession of Lahore began from Nisar Haveli, Mochi Gate on Saturday morning. It followed its traditional route passing through Kashmiri Bazaar, Masjid Wazir Khan, Rang Mahal, Paniwala Talab, Bazaar Hakiman, Taksali and Bhatti Gate.

Read: Ashura processions culminate peacefully across country amid tight security

Mourners held Majalis-e-Azadari at main chowks along the route and flagellated themselves to express their deep sentiments and aspirations with Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions.

The Lahore Police made strict security arrangements for the procession with snipers deployed on various rooftops along the route.

Meanwhile, in Karachi, the central procession was taken out from Nishtar Park with mourners gathering for it as early as 8am. Allama Shehanshah Hussain Naqvi addressed the assembly before the march began. It culminated at Imambargah Hussainia Iranian.

Apart from strict security arrangements, water, tabarruk and niyaz were made available at various points along the procession route to facilitate mourners.

In Quetta, the central procession departed from Nasirabad Imambargah and was led by Balochistan Shia Conference President Jawad Rafi. Mourners passed through Alamdar Road, Toghi Road, Mission Road, Bacha Khan Chowk, Liaquat Bazaar and Prince Road before the procession culminated at Mominabad Imambargah.

Security check posts were set up at various entry points to all 36 mourning processions being carried out in the city.

In Gilgit, the main procession was taken out from Central Imamia Mosque which circled back to the same place this afternoon after passing through its traditional routes.

Mourners offered Zuhr prayers at Captain Zameer Abbas Chowk while majalis were organised at various Imambargahs at night.

In Peshawar, the police sealed the routes of the mourning processions in all districts through which mourners were expected to pass through.

A central control room was set up in Kohat Gate area to closely monitor the mourning processions, while another sub-control room has been established in Saddar.

Live monitoring by cameras, special lighting, and generators have also been arranged along the designated procession routes after consultation with the Shia community.

In remembrance 

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif issued a statement in remembrance of Karbala.

&ldquo;Imam Husain&rsquo;s sacrifice teaches us the priceless lesson of unshakable faith, righteousness and justice,&rdquo; he said, urging the public to learn from the tragedy.

Similarly, President Arif Alvi reminded the country that the companions of Imam Hussain (RA) &ldquo;taught us the importance of loyalty, righteousness and supporting those who struggle for truth and justice&rdquo;.



صدر مملکت ڈاکٹر عارف علوی کا یوم عاشورہ 10 محرم الحرام 1445ھ کے موقع پر پیغام#یوم_عاشور #10محرم pic.twitter.com/pvE9HLMdw8
&mdash; The President of Pakistan (@PresOfPakistan) July 29, 2023


Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also took to Twitter to pay tribute to the martyrs of Karbala.



شاہ است حسینؑ، بادشاہ است حسینؑ
دین است حسینؑ، دین پناہ است حسینؑ
سرداد نہ داد دست در دست یزید
حقّا کہ بنائے لاالہ است حسینؑ pic.twitter.com/H56hJtxnLT
&mdash; BilawalBhuttoZardari (@BBhuttoZardari) July 29, 2023


&nbsp;]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Ashura-peshawar-app1690656699-0/Ashura-peshawar-app1690656699-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Cauldrons of niaz feed the faithful</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2370623/cauldrons-of-niaz-feed-the-faithful</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2370623/cauldrons-of-niaz-feed-the-faithful#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 11 Aug 22 20:02:32 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2370623</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Deg prices increased significantly this year]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[For devotees, the preparation and distribution of niaz amongst faithful mourners during the Islamic month of Muharram is a significant part of their remembrance of the steadfastness and martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and son of Hazrat Ali.

The word niaz commonly means the food offered during or after the conclusion of the religious processions and congregations on the 9th and 10th of Muharram. This food is cooked in huge cauldrons, colloquially known as degs, and served at homes, neighbourhoods and among the participants of &lsquo;Majlis&rsquo;.

While haleem has long been a mainstay among the fare served as niaz, degs of other dishes are gradually gaining popularity for the purpose as well. Besides being prepared on a smaller scale at homes, entire cauldrons of these dishes keep catering businesses and specialty food vedors extremely busy during Ashura.

In addition to sabeels &ndash; or free distribution stalls &ndash; offering cold milk and sherbet on the routes of the processions, there is no street, neighbourhood or food hub where niaz in the memory of Imam Hussain and martyrs of Karbala is not being prepared and distributed with customary devotion and respect.

This year, a deg of haleem is being sold for Rs16,000, while beef haleem is being prepared for Rs18,000, chicken biryani for Rs13,000, beef pulao for Rs17,000 and chickpea rice for Rs6,000 per deg.

Citizens who book orders for these degs every year have shared their concerns over the astronomical increase in the prices this year.

Catering manager Maula Bakhsh alias Pyari Jan said while he is fully aware that the cooks are fulfilling a sacred religious duty by preparing niaz, the soaring inflation has left them no choice but to charge customers dearly.

He went on to say that prices of everything have risen considerably, and rates for the material used in preparing degs seem to be revised every other day. Moreover, gas cylinders have also become expensive, which add a lot to the overall cost.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 12th, 2022.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/food-31593493570-0/food-31593493570-0.jpeg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Imam Hussain’s message transcends religions, centuries</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2370167/imam-hussains-message-transcends-religions-centuries</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2370167/imam-hussains-message-transcends-religions-centuries#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 08 Aug 22 18:21:01 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Ishtiaq Ali Mehkri]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Opinion]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2370167</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Hussain ibn Ali is a symbol of courage and a marvel of defiance against submission to an unjust order]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[It is not necessary to be a Shia to be a lover or admirer of Imam Hussain. Nor to be a Muslim to acknowledge the infallibility, greatness, and valour of the grandson of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who stood fast against tyranny and barbarism never seen in human history. Hussain ibn Ali is a symbol of courage and a marvel of defiance against submission to an unjust order. He registered a passionate order against incredible adversity. This is why he is adorned for as he stands tall as the torchbearer of human values, one that excels in dire straits on the path of unison against repression and cruelty.

Imam Hussain lives on in the hearts as the symbol of devotion to truth and love for the Almighty. The inspiring story and glory of his martyrdom in Karbala along with his kith and kin, and companions, comprising 72 in total against 0.9 million forces of Umayyad will forever be remembered. It can neither be ignored nor undermined till the doomsday.

The great Imam, scion of Ali and Fatima, registered an unprecedented epilogue of conviction and by soaking the dirt of Karbala with his holy blood, has left behind undeniable prints on human conscience. To this day, he provides guidance to drive our conduct and character against the idols of wickedness and deceit. The fact is that divinity, the teachings of the Holy Prophet, and the indispensable truth stood with Hussain &ndash; and this is what makes Karbala an institution to recollect and rise in catastrophe for the entire humankind.

The tragedy of Karbala in 61 Hijra was a war that was fought for 10 hours on the 10th of Muharram. Yet, it continues to inspire people across the world. It is beyond ritual and devotion. It touches the human heart, irrespective of his/her faith and belief. The pious Imam&rsquo;s rejection of injustice and tyranny to uphold traits of human conscience makes him immortal.

The repression unleashed on his person, and his family including women and children, as well as the guided companions of the Prophet in Karbala, was meant to succumb him to an imperial juggernaut. The forces of evil wanted to subdue the glorious teachings of Islam by instilling adultery, falsehood, and cunningness as the way of life.

Hussain, the heir to the Holy Prophet, stood like a rock and shed his blood but did not give in. Refusal to submit at the cost of annihilation is what makes Imam Hussain the stardom of humanity. A trait that is eulogized by everyone except the unrighteous.

Karbala is a testament to divine love. In this age of materialism, the message from the holy martyrs&rsquo; acts as an antidote to realising spiritualism. This is why Napoleon Bonaparte, in his incarnation, wrote to his soldiers to read out Hussain. The reason was simple: Hussain is a saviour and shall remain an undiminished example of bravery.

It is no folk story that the retreating forces of Ibn-e-Ziyad were piling on the doors of Kufa, as Hussain and his 72 faithful put blood to sword. Charles Dickens eulogizes by saying, &ldquo;If Hussain fought to quench his worldly desires, then I do not understand why his sisters, wives and children accompanied him. It stands to reason, therefore, that he sacrificed purely for Islam.&rdquo;

So is Edward Gibbon, as he admits that Hussain&rsquo;s martyrdom has well-entrenched Islam, as the tragic scene of his death will continue to awaken the sympathy of the coldest reader. The righteous men of Karbala proved they were rigid believers of God, and that numerical superiority does not count when it comes to truth and falsehood.

What a tribute to the uniqueness of Hussain, as the Prophet said, &ldquo;Husain is from me and I am from Husain.&rdquo; The Prophet also addressed Hussain in his lap by saying, &ldquo;he is the lamp of guidance, and the ark of salvation.&rdquo; Thus, the firmness of Hussain&rsquo;s truth in Karbala was, indeed, the steadfastness of the Prophet!

Shaikh Abbas Qummi wrote in &lsquo;Nafasal Mahmum&rsquo; &mdash; one of the most authentic accounts of the event of Karbala &mdash; that a witness to the battle says: &ldquo;By Allah! I have seen none like him [Imam Husain], who having lost his sons, relatives and dear friends, and in spite of this, his heart [remains] powerful and serene, and feet firm upon the ground.&rdquo;

Allama Majlisi (1628-1699 AD) narrates in Maqtal-e-Hussain, Hussain&rsquo;s body bore more than 900 wounds as he went down fighting and bowed his head in submission to the Almighty. 

Allama Iqbal was apt in recollecting history for all times, as he said: Haqiqat-e-Abadi hay maq&acirc;m-e-Shabbiri; Badaltay rehte hain and&acirc;ze Kufio-Sh&acirc;mi (Bal-e-Jibril).

Ashura every year invokes mankind from slumber and drives attention towards emancipation. This is why Karbala is unforgettable and serves as a denominator for all races and religions. The message is universal and eternal. Hussain transcends national and linguistic boundaries, and this is why his sacrifice is mourned and praised century after century.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 9th, 2022.

Like Opinion &amp; Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Ishtiaq-Ali-Mehkri1624214293-0/Ishtiaq-Ali-Mehkri1624214293-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>9th Muharram processions conclude amid tight security</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2370120/9th-muharram-processions-conclude-amid-tight-security</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2370120/9th-muharram-processions-conclude-amid-tight-security#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 08 Aug 22 06:20:19 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[newsdesk.]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2370120</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Mourners take out processions as mobile, internet services remain suspended]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Strict security measures were taken across the country as mourners observe 9th of Muharram with due solemnity and sanctity in memory of the seventh-century martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Processions were taken out on Monday in all small and large cities across the country. Meanwhile, the government had deployed police, Rangers and army personnel as part of security measures across the country, especially in sensitive areas.

Mobile networks remained suspended in some areas across the country and internet service was also disrupted in sensitive areas to ensure foolproof security as the country has seen a raft of attacks at imambargahs and processions in the past. Further, a ban on pillion riding has also been imposed.

Read&nbsp;Over 175k policemen to perform Muharram duty

To contain the crowds, the administration had blocked the roads by erecting containers and other obstacles, including barbed wire on the routes of the processions, while sealing the central areas from all sides. The visitors were only allowed to enter after passing through the walk-through gates.

Islamabad

According to sources, the main procession of the 9th of Muharram in the federal capital left from imambargah Imambargah Asna Ashri G6/2 and ended on the same location.

Details regarding the suspension of mobile phone service were issued by the Islamabad administration, according to which, on 9th and 10th of Muharram, services in the areas of G6, G7, G8 and G9 will remain suspended from 9am till midnight. While in I10 and surrounding areas mobile phone services remained closed from 10am to 6pm today and will remain suspended from 10am to 4pm on 10th of Muharram. Furthermore, on 11th Muharram, mobile phone service will be intercepted from 9am to 10pm in the areas of Bari Imam.

Meanwhile, alternative routes had been announced for Muharram processions in the federal capital. In this regard, maps have also been released on social networking websites.

Karachi

According to Express News, the main procession in Karachi left from Nishtar Park at 1pm, which passed through MA Jinnah Road, Saddar&#39;s Empress Market and Tibet Centre and ended at Imambargah Hussainiya Iraniyan in Kharadar.

Lahore

The main procession in the provincial capital of Punjab started from Islampura&#39;s Pandu Street and passed through the designated routes to end back at its starting point.

Peshawar

The main procession in Peshawar began from Imam Bargah Hussainiya Hall and ended later in the day.

Quetta

In Quetta, the main procession took place from Mehakngi Road.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Muharram-procession1598706162-0/Muharram-procession1598706162-0.png" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Six deceased, dozens unconscious of suffocation during Muharram procession in Rohri</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2370133/six-deceased-dozens-unconscious-of-suffocation-during-muharram-procession-in-rohri</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2370133/six-deceased-dozens-unconscious-of-suffocation-during-muharram-procession-in-rohri#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 08 Aug 22 10:11:49 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Sindh]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2370133</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Three of the deceased have been identified; all moved to local hospital]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Six mourners passed away due to suffocation and dozens were rendered unconscious during the 9th Muharram procession&nbsp;in the city of Rohri, Sindh.

According to Edhi sources, three of the six deceased mourners who passed away during an attempt to pay homage to martyrs&nbsp;of Karbala have been identified. They include&nbsp;Dil Sher, son of Morzada and a resident of Guddu, Hasan Pathan, a resident of Sukkur Local Board, and Mansoor, son of Bashir Ahmed and a resident of Halani.

Rescue aid sources stated that the dead and injured were shifted to Taluka Hospital, following which a large number of people also reached the hospital.

Processions and security

Strict security measures are being taken across the country as mourners observe the 9th of Muharram with due solemnity and sanctity in memory of the seventh-century martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Read Over 5,000 cops guard 8 Muharram procession

Processions are being taken out in all small and large cities across the country. Meanwhile, the government has deployed police, rangers and army personnel as part of security measures across the country, especially in sensitive areas.

Mobile networks have been suspended in most areas across the country and internet service has also been disrupted in sensitive areas to ensure foolproof security as the country has seen a raft of attacks at imambargahs and processions in the past.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/978670-muharram-1445748367/978670-muharram-1445748367.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Indian atrocities in IIOJK continue as Muharram processions remain banned</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2370029/indian-attrocities-in-iiojk-continue-as-muharram-processions-remain-banned</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2370029/indian-attrocities-in-iiojk-continue-as-muharram-processions-remain-banned#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 07 Aug 22 11:52:22 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2370029</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Observing the religious ritual has been banned in the region since 1989, violating fundamental human rights]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) witnessed a continuation of widespread violations of fundamental human rights on Sunday as processions remained banned on 8 Muharram.

In a continuous violation of the United Nations&rsquo; Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Muslims of IIOJK are being prevented from performing religious rituals since 1989.

The curfew-like restrictions are imposed in Srinagar and other cities to stop the processions while internet service has also been suspended.



Footage of Shiite Muslims attempting to participate in Muharram processions being attacked by Indian forces in occupied Kashmir went viral on Sunday.

Trigger Warning (Violence)

For more: https://t.co/gjIMDxqLnN#etribune #Kashmir #Muharram pic.twitter.com/6YI4Gg5tJo
&mdash; The Express Tribune (@etribune) August 7, 2022



Read  Indian media exposed for spreading fake news about Pakistan&#39;s role in IIOJK

Last year, dozens of Kashmiris had been detained and journalists had also been subjected to baton charge in the occupied territory.



On the occasion, Pakistan had strongly condemned the use of tear gas shells and the firing of warning shots on Muslims taking part in a peaceful Muharram procession.

Earlier this week, the people of Hyderabad had expressed solidarity and support for the people of IIOJK by taking out rallies and condemning India&#39;s brutal suppression of innocent Kashmiris.



Meanwhile, Youm-e-Istehsal was observed, across Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) with the pledge to continue the support to the people of IIOJK in their fight for seeking the right to self-determination.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/WhatsApp-Image-2022-08-07-at-10-15-38-PM-(1)1659896393-1/WhatsApp-Image-2022-08-07-at-10-15-38-PM-(1)1659896393-1.jpeg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>MWMC workers to remain on duty</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2369887/mwmc-workers-to-remain-on-duty</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2369887/mwmc-workers-to-remain-on-duty#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 06 Aug 22 19:36:25 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2369887</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Waste management company cancels employees holiday ahead of Ashura]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Multan Waste Management Company (MWMC) cancelled holidays for field staff and company workshop workers to ensure swift cleanliness arrangements for the 9th and 10th of Muharram. 

Additional Deputy Commissioner Revenue and CEO MWMC Ameer Hassam made the announcement during an inspection of cleanliness arrangements at Imambargahs and along procession routes on Saturday. CEO Hassan also met the organisers of the processions and majalis. 

He added that the MWMC was following a comprehensive cleanliness plan for Muharram and workers were performing duties in two shifts. 

Water sprinkling and lime lining is being done outside Imambargahs and phenyl is being used along procession routes to ensure thorough cleaning. 

He said company workers were working diligently on a daily basis and arrangements would continue at the same pace until Ashura day. 

Organisers of the processions and majalis appreciated the MWMC management and workers and said that thorough cleaning arrangements were being made on Muharram. They also thanked Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Tahir Wattoo and his team for the arrangements.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 7th, 2022.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1621315-sweeperinpakistannewx-1517241766/1621315-sweeperinpakistannewx-1517241766.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Ashura security plan gets nod</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2369899/ashura-security-plan-gets-nod</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2369899/ashura-security-plan-gets-nod#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 06 Aug 22 19:40:13 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2369899</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[CM asks ministers, advisers to oversee situation in districts]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Punjab cabinet decided on Saturday that pillion riding will be banned and mobile phone service suspended on Muharram 9 and 10 at sensitive places as well as along the procession routes.

Chief Minister Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi presided over the first provincial cabinet meeting that approved a foolproof security plan for Muharram, especially on the eve of Ashura.

He asserted that the provincial ministers, advisers and special assistants would oversee security arrangements in their districts. He directed the cabinet members to visit their districts forthwith to monitor the steps being taken for the protection of the lives and properties of the people. 

The chief minister issued directives to hold regular meetings at the district level to ensure peace and security on the Youm-e-Ashur and to ensure CCTV coverage of all processions and Majalis. 

He ordered the authorities to ensure peaceful environment at any cost during Muharram, especially on the Youm-e-Ashur. 

He directed the members of district and divisional peace committees to play a proactive role to promote religious homogeneity. 

The CM asserted his resolve not to make any compromise on the publication and distribution of objectionable material and said indiscriminate action will be taken over its violation. 

He directed the authorities to ensure implementation of the code of conduct and the law enforcement agencies to maintain a close liaison with one another. The security arrangements should also be regularly monitored. 

The chief minister ordered prompt implementation of a special aid and relief package for the flood affected areas and expeditious compensation for damage caused to the fields and the properties. 

The Punjab cabinet assented to reconstituting its Standing Committee for Finance and Development headed by Finance Minister Mohsin Leghari. 

It also approval reconstitution of the Cabinet Standing Committee for Legal Affairs. The provincial minister for public prosecution and cooperatives will head the committee. 

The members of the cabinet prayed for the martyrs in the helicopter accident of Pakistan Army Aviation in Balochistan. 

They expressed their deep sense of sorrow and grief over the loss of lives due to flood and rains. 

The CM stated that every eye is in tears over the tragic helicopter accident and we salute the martyred army officers. He lauded the martyred Lieutenant General Sarfaraz Ali and other army officers who sacrificed their lives during the performance of their duties.

Addressing the cabinet members, the chief minister vowed to serve the masses of the province. &ldquo;You are my team and we all have to provide relief to the people by uniting as a team,&rdquo; he stated. He urged the cabinet members to work in a manner for the public welfare which can significantly distinguish the performance of the incumbent government. He exhorted the cabinet members to fulfil their responsibilities for the people and said their performance should speak for itself. 

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pervaiz Elahi also ordered the departments and institutions concerned to remain alert all the time in the wake of rains in Lahore and other cities. 

He directed the district administration, Water and Sanitation Agency, Rescue 1122 and Provincial Disaster Management Authority to undertake prompt measures to cope with the situation arising out of rains. He directed the departments concerned to ensure expeditious drainage of rainwater from the low lying areas. He said the officials concerned should come out of their offices to oversee the water drainage work. 

The chief minister directed the traffic police to take effective measures to ensure that the citizens do not face any difficulty in commuting.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 7th, 2022.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/978670-muharram-1445748367/978670-muharram-1445748367.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Rangers DG reviews security arrangements</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2369317/rangers-dg-reviews-security-arrangements</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2369317/rangers-dg-reviews-security-arrangements#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 03 Aug 22 20:22:14 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sindh]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2369317</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Muharram, Independence Day, local govt elections lined up]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan Rangers Sindh DG General Iftikhar Hassan Chaudhary chaired a meeting to review the arrangements to maintain peace and order in the city, especially during Muharram, Independence Day celebrations and the upcpming local government elections.

Additional Commissioner Karachi, Additional IG Karachi, Joint DG IB, DG IB (Special Branch, East, West, South, CTD, Traffic) police, Rangers and senior officers of sensitive institutions attended the meeting.

Measures finalised and taken to ensure security during Ashura processions, Independence Day and local government elections across the province were reviewed while the meeting approved the action plan in this regard. 

It was decided in the meeting that joint flag march and snap-checking by Rangers and police during Muharram will be made more effective so that the security of the gatherings of all schools of thought, majalis and the entrances and exits of processions is ensured. 

Published in The Express Tribune, August 4th, 2022.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/974732-muharramprocessionphotoonline-1445146245/974732-muharramprocessionphotoonline-1445146245.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Show of force: police hold flag march in twin cities</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2368884/show-of-force-police-hold-flag-march-in-twin-cities</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2368884/show-of-force-police-hold-flag-march-in-twin-cities#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 01 Aug 22 06:21:28 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[​ Our Correspondents]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2368884</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[March conducted to showcase preparedness for Muharram]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Islamabad and Rawalpindi police along with a contingent of Rangers and rescue officials conducted a flag march through the twin cities on Sunday.

The separate march was held to show the public how prepared the police and other law enforcement agencies were to maintain the law and order during Muharram.

Islamabad police conducted the flag march in different areas of the city to maintain peace and tranquillity during Muharram.

The flag march was headed by SSP(Operations) Malik Jameel Zafar and Deputy Commissioner Islamabad Irfan Nawaz.

&nbsp;SP Industrial Area and SP rural were also present during the flag march.

The march started from the Pakistan Sports Complex and culminated at the same spot after passing through Dhokri Chowk, Rawal Dam Chowk, Shehzad Town, Tramri Chow, Lehtrar Road, Khanna Bridge, Koral Chowk, PWD Housing Society, Kaak Bridge to Kahuta road, Imam Bargah Haideri in Sihala, Imam Bargah Niazian Expressway, Sain Boota Shrine Faizabad, Sector I-8Markaz, Imambargah Jafferia SectorI-10 Markaz, Imam Bargah Moosa Kazim, Imambargah Baltastania, Police Lines Headquarters, Kashmi rHighway, Jhangi Syedan, Imam Bargah Qadeemi to Imam Bargah Baitul Hussain and Aabpara Chowk.

SSP Operations Malik Jameel Zafar said that flag marches were being conducted in various areas to make security more effective and added that strict vigilance would be maintained like the previous year to maintain the law and order in the city.

All zonal SDPOs, SHOs of police stations, Islamabad traffic police personnel, Bravo vehicles, police commandos, Rescue 15 police personnel and patrolling police personnel participated in the flag march.

Rangers, the Islamabad administration and other law-enforcing agencies were also part of the flag march All the SPs have been tasked to maintain close liaison with peace committees and organizers of Majalis and processions.

The SSP (operations) directed all zonal SDPOs and SHOs for strict security arrangements during Muharram.

&nbsp;He said that it should be ensured to make arrangements for checking participants of Majalis and processions by using metal detectors.

Strict vigilance should be maintained to ensure that security measures are in place by the police as well as peace committees.

He said that it would be ensured that processions pass through the fixed routes and timings of processions to be observed strictly.

&nbsp;He also directed effective patrolling and use commando vehicles for the purpose.

The SSP (operations) has also asked citizens to cooperate with the Islamabad capital police to ensure effective policing.

Meanwhile, Rawalpindi city police, Rangers and rescue officials carried out their own flag march in the city to maintain peace during Muharram.

&nbsp;SSP operations, SP headquarters divisional SPs, SDPOs, SHOs along with district police, Elite Force, traffic police and Dolphin squad participated in the flag march.

The purpose of the flag march was to exhibit the preparedness to maintain the law and order during the month of Muharram.

The flag march started from Rawalpindi Police Lines and passed through various routes of the city and ended at the same point.

Under the security plan, around10,000 personnel of police and other law enforcement agencies will be deployed for foolproof security in Rawalpindi.

Besides police personnel, Rangers will also be deployed on Ashura, while the army will remain on high alert.

&nbsp;According to the authorities, mobile service will remain suspended from 7th Muharram to 10thMuharram in most sensitive areas.

The leaves of police personnel had also been cancelled.

The Rawalpindi district administration has imposed a ban on the entry of 65 firebrand religious figures during Muharram.

A senior police officer, on the condition of anonymity, told The Express Tribune that the Rawalpindi police, with the cooperation of other law enforcement agencies, has devised a foolproof security plan for Muharram.



A total of over 1,500 Majalis and100 mourning processions will be held in the Rawalpindi district.

Security agencies have divided all Majlis and mourning processions into three different categories.

Highly sensitive processions have been included in A-category, less sensitive processions have been included in B-category, while moderately sensitive processions have been included in C-category.

A total of five mourning processions have been declared highly sensitive and placed in A-category, while 112 processions and congregations have been placed in other categories.

Police officials said that all mourning processions from the 7th Muharram to the 10th of Muharram have been declared highly sensitive.

Around 12 Imambargahs across the city have also been declared highly sensitive and police personnel will be deployed in these Imambargahs.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Police1659335270-0/Police1659335270-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Over 175k policemen to perform Muharram duty</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2368548/over-175k-policemen-to-perform-muharram-duty</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2368548/over-175k-policemen-to-perform-muharram-duty#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 29 Jul 22 19:36:45 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2368548</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[IGP says religious harmony must be promoted through scholars’ cooperation]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[At least 176,477 police personnel and volunteers will secure mourning processions, while 194,086 police personnel and volunteers will perform security duties at religious gatherings under Muharram security plan finalised by Inspector General Police Punjab (IGP) Faisal Shahkar on Friday.

Additional IGs, DIGs, Special Branch, CTD and PSCA officers were present at the video link conference, while all RPOs, CPOs, DPOs and Additional IG South Punjab also participated through video link.

Approximately 9,292 processions and 37,223 religious gatherings will be held in all the districts of the province during the month of Muharram, according to statistics. IGP Shahkar directed personnel to ensure four-layers of security for sensitive and A-category mourning processions and Majalis across Punjab.

The IGP directed officers to take strict action against violations of Loud Speaker Act and broadcasting and promotion of malicious content.

The IGP reaffirmed that religious unity and harmony must be promoted through the cooperation of scholars and Ulemas from all schools of thought, community leaders, businessmen and civil society. He stressed upon field officers to ensure the active role of peace committees, in collaboration with the district administration.

Special security arrangements were outline for Imambargahs, Ashura processions and religious gatherings in all sensitive cities, including Lahore, Multan, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad and Gujranwala.

The IGP said CCTV cameras should be installed along the main procession routes for Muharram 9 and Ashura and drones should also be arranged for aerial monitoring. IG Punjab further directed that special attention should be paid to monitoring by PSCA in Lahore.

He emphasised upon supervisory officers to review the security arrangements of Muharram by conducting inspections on the ground.

He also directed increased patrolling hours at night and that lady constables and female volunteers should be assisted in security and checks in women&#39;s religious gatherings and processions.

Meanwhile, DPO Pakpattan delivered a briefing on the security arrangements for the five-day Urs celebrations of Hazrat Baba Fariduddin Ganj Shukar.

IG Punjab ordered that the activities of banned organizations and persons included in the Fourth Schedule must be closely monitored during Muharram.

He also ordered implementation of an effective traffic plan, keeping in view the timings of religious gatherings and mourning processions, so that traffic flow would remain undisrupted, especially on important highways.

IG Punjab additionally ordered the installation of walk-through gates, metal detectors, CCTV monitoring and video recording as part of the security package.

He instructed officers to ensure implementation of restrictions on fixed hours of processions and religious gatherings at any cost.

Search, sweep, combing and intelligence-based operations will also be continued in and around the locations of religious gatherings and procession routes. He also deployed plain clothed commandos and snipers on rooftops of buildings on the route of sensitive processions and religious gatherings.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 30th, 2022.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/punjab-police1638886011-0/punjab-police1638886011-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Muharram security plan for twin cities finalised</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2368561/muharram-security-plan-for-twin-cities-finalised</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2368561/muharram-security-plan-for-twin-cities-finalised#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 29 Jul 22 19:41:39 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Imran Asghar]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2368561</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Over 20,000 police personnel will perform security duty]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Police have finalised a security plan for Muharram for the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

Under the security plan, around 10,000 personnel of police and other law enforcement agencies will be deployed for foolproof security in Rawalpindi.

Besides police personnel, Rangers will also be deployed on Ashura, while the army will remain on high alert. According to the authorities, mobile service will remain suspended from 7th Muharram to 10th Muharram in most sensitive areas. The leaves of police personnel had also been cancelled.

The Rawalpindi district administration has imposed a ban on the entry of 65 firebrand religious figures during Muharram.

A senior police officer, on the condition of anonymity, told The Express Tribune that the Rawalpindi police, with the cooperation of other law enforcement agencies, has devised a foolproof security plan for Muharram.

A total of over 1,500 Majalis and 100 mourning processions will be held in the Rawalpindi district. Security agencies have divided all Majlis and mourning processions into three different categories. Highly sensitive processions have been included in A-category, less sensitive processions have been included in B-category, while moderately sensitive processions have been included in C-category.

A total of five mourning processions have been declared highly sensitive and placed in A-category, while 112 processions and congregations have been placed in other categories. Police officials said that all mourning processions from the 7th Muharram to the 10th of Muharram have been declared highly sensitive. Around 12 Imambargahs across the city have also been declared highly sensitive and police personnel will be deployed in these Imambargahs from Saturday (today).

The police officer said that elements distributing any kind of hate literature and indulging in wall chalking to spread religious hatred will be immediately arrested and imprisoned under 16 MPO and other legal actions will also be taken against such elements.

The police officer said that an attempt can be made to spread religious sectarianism through social media during Muharram. He said that Rawalpindi police have formed a special wing for social media monitoring which will conduct operations in collaboration with the FIA.

According to the security plan, all connecting roads, streets, thoroughfares, neighbourhoods, bazaars and markets will be sealed to keep all routes of sensitive processions safe and clear. Mobile and Internet service will be suspended in certain areas from 7th Muharram to Ashura. Public transport routes including metro bus service will be restricted. There will be a total ban on wielding arms, gathering on rooftops and hosting guests in hotels.

The police officer said that the Punjab government may impose a ban on pillion riding in Rawalpindi on the occasion of Yum-e-Ashura. More than 500 CCTV cameras will be installed in all procession routes with the proper arrangement of lights. A control room has been set up to monitor all the CCTV cameras. Police and other law enforcement officials will be stationed in the control room.

These closed-circuit cameras will be installed at Iqbal Road, Fawara Chowk, Raja Bazar, Dingi Khoi, Old Qila, Urdu Bazar Chowk, Jamia Masjid Road, Murree Road, Committee Chowk, Liaquat Road and Raja Bazar Chowk for monitoring mourning processions. A formal contract has also been awarded to the local private sector. The control room of the closed-circuit cameras will be set up at Fawara Chowk. Rangers, commandos, police and district administration officers will sit here in 24 hours shifts in the control room.

Elite commandos will be deployed on roofs of buildings to ensure the security of the procession routes. During Muharram, those organising drink stalls (Sabeel) and food stalls (Langar) have been asked to obtain the NOC from the district administration. Distribution of langar without the permission of the district administration will be prohibited. Separate arrangements will be made for a comprehensive search of male and female mourners participating in the processions. Aerial surveillance will also be conducted in highly sensitive processions.

Meanwhile, Islamabad police have put in place elaborate arrangements for Muharram.

According to the Islamabad police public relations officer, about 10,000 personnel will perform security duty during Muharram. The security plan was finalised at a meeting presided over by the Deputy Inspector General of Police (Operations) Sohail Zafar Chatha, he said.

&nbsp;

Published in The Express Tribune, July 30th, 2022.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/621014-muharramsecurityAPP-1382487048/621014-muharramsecurityAPP-1382487048.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Muharram moon not sighted, Ashura on August 9</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2368518/muharram-moon-not-sighted-ashura-on-august-9</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2368518/muharram-moon-not-sighted-ashura-on-august-9#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 29 Jul 22 14:25:46 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2368518</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[First Muharram, which is also the first day of Hijri year 1444, will commence on Sunday]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Muharramul Haram crescent has not been sighted and Youm-e-Ashur will be observed on August 9 (Tuesday), the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee announced on Friday.

The first of Muharram &ndash; which is also the first day of Hijri year 1444, according to the Islamic calendar &ndash; will commence on Sunday (July 31).

The announcement was made following a meeting for the moon sighting, chaired by Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Chairman Maulana Muhammad Abdul Khabir Azad.

The provincial and district moon sighting committees also held their meetings simultaneously today at their respective headquarters.

Muharram is the month of mourning for the seventh-century martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Security is beefed up across the country for the many processions taken out by the believers.
The country has seen a raft of attacks at imambargahs and processions in the past.

Read more: Muharram moon sighted, Ashura on August 19

Covid SOPs

On July 22, the government issued new coronavirus guidelines to be observed during the Majalis in the month of Muharram.

According to the standard operating procedures (SOPs) issued by the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), the wearing of mask and use of sanitisers have been made mandatory during the Muharram Majalis and processions.

The NCOC said that only vaccinated people would attend the Majalis, which would be held in open and spacious places with adequate ventilation arrangements. It further said that social distancing during congregations and processions would also be mandatory.

The forum said that people aged above 65 years and children must listen to Majlis from homes.

According to the NCOC, it was necessary to implement the SOPs in order to prevent coronavirus spread during Muharram.

&nbsp;]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Muharram-procession1598706162-0/Muharram-procession1598706162-0.png" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Peace committees urged to ensure amity in Muharram</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2367780/peace-committees-urged-to-ensure-amity-in-muharram</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2367780/peace-committees-urged-to-ensure-amity-in-muharram#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 25 Jul 22 20:09:09 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2367780</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Commissioner says all procession routes will be secured]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[A meeting of the Divisional Peace Committee on Monday expressed resolve to maintain peace, brotherhood and unity among all schools of thought of Muslims during upcoming Muharram.

Meeting was presided over by Commissioner Amir Khattak attended by Farooq Seedi, Ali Raza, Muhammad Usman, Abdul Haq and others. DC Tahir Wattu, Additional Commissioner Sarfraz among other officers attended the meeting.

Addressing the participants, the commissioner said land of saints had always delivered peace message among Muslim Ummah from its soil. He said violation of the loud speaker act and wall chalking would be dealt with strictly.

&ldquo;Law and order will be maintained at all costs in the division during Muharram. Close and full security arrangements will be made on all procession routes,&rdquo; he said.

The commissioner said there would be exemplary cleaning arrangements on routes of Imam Bargahs and gatherings. He said strict accountability would be held against elements to be found fuelling hatred and mischief.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 26th, 2022.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Muharram-NHD-1597559036-2/Muharram-NHD-1597559036-2.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Ulema urged to play role in promoting peace</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2367146/ulema-urged-to-play-role-in-promoting-peace</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2367146/ulema-urged-to-play-role-in-promoting-peace#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 21 Jul 22 19:21:18 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2367146</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Significance of religious harmony highlighted ahead of Muharram]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Deputy Commissioner Tahir Farooq urged the ulema to play their role in promoting religious harmony and unity during Muharram. 

Presiding over a meeting of the Peace Committee at his office on Thursday, he underlined the need to ensure the code of conduct issued by the Punjab government. 

&ldquo;Maintaining religious harmony is an obligation for scholars,&rdquo; he added.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 22nd, 2022.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/623388-muharramashuraphotoonline-13829393371629187818-0/623388-muharramashuraphotoonline-13829393371629187818-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>38 scholars banned during Muharram</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2367134/38-scholars-banned-during-muharram</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2367134/38-scholars-banned-during-muharram#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 21 Jul 22 19:15:07 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[app]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2367134</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Scholars banned for delivering provocative speeches, inciting violence]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The district administration barred entry of 38 scholars belonging to different sects from Muharram processions. 

The aforementioned scholars often deliver provocative speeches during Muharram, in order to incite violence. Under preventive measures to maintain law and order, the ban has been enforced. 

According to a notification issued by the deputy commissioner&rsquo;s office, the entry of Molana Shabir Ahmed, Molana Rehan Mahmood, Molana Alam Tariq, Muhammad Hussain Dhakoo, Muhammad Tahir Jhangvi, Ghulam Jaffar, Allama Sajid Hussain Naqvi, Sultan Mahmood Zia, Iqtidar Hussain Naqvi, Molana Muhammad Yousaf, Molana Khadim Hussain Khursheed, Muhammad Bilal Qadri, Dr Asif Ashraf, Kamran Abbas BA, Molana Abdul Rehman Cheema, Allama Ghulam Shabir Naqvi and others has been banned in the district during Muharram. 

The ban was imposed on the recommendations of the district intelligence committee, in the interest of public peace, tranquility and religious harmony amongst different sects. 

However, the banned persons remain at liberty to file an appeal to the provincial government against the ban order, the notification added.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 22nd, 2022.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Iraq-Muharram1598015550-0/Iraq-Muharram1598015550-0.png" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>CM lauds Muharram security arrangements</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2316459/cm-lauds-muharram-security-arrangements</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2316459/cm-lauds-muharram-security-arrangements#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 20 Aug 21 19:25:59 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2316459</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Sought a report about Bahawalnagar’s tragic incident]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Punjab Chief Minister Sardar Usman Buzdar visited the home department&#39;s central control room at the Civil Secretariat to inspect the province-wise security arrangements on the 10th of Muharram.

On this occasion, the CM said Muharram processions and Majalis had been geotagged and army and rangers had been called in to assist in security arrangements. Meanwhile, the ministers were assigned duties to monitor law and order arrangements in different districts, he added. ACS (Home) summarised that the central control room was linked with divisional and district control rooms. Punjab Law Minister Raja Basharat, IGP, Lahore commissioner, special secretary (home) and others were also present.

Buzdar also sought a report from Punjab IGP about a tragic incident that occurred in Bahawalnagar and directed legal action against the accused. He also extended sympathies to the bereaved families of two persons who lost their lives and directed the administration to provide the best medical treatment to the injured. 

Read&nbsp;IGP hails Muharram security arrangements

Later, the chief minister visited Punjab Safe Cities Authority&#39;s head office on the 10th of Muharram to review security arrangements for mourners&#39; processions in the city. He also visited the Pukaar 15 control room to inspect its response mechanism. 

The CM expressed satisfaction that IT-based arrangements had been made to frustrate the nefarious designs of anti-state forces. It is satisfying that police and other law enforcement agencies have jointly made foolproof arrangements, he added.

While chairing a meeting at the PSCA head office, he reviewed progress made on the tragic incident that occurred at Minar-e-Pakistan. 

A committee was constituted under housing secretary to determine the role of PHA. This committee will ascertain the responsibilities and alleged negligence of PHA officials. An inquiry committee constituted under PSCA MD Sardar Ali Khan will identify the negligence and responsibilities of security staff.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 21st, 2021.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/buzdar1599734172-0/buzdar1599734172-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Citizens prepare Muharram feasts with zeal</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2316521/citizens-prepare-muharram-feasts-with-zeal</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2316521/citizens-prepare-muharram-feasts-with-zeal#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 20 Aug 21 20:57:07 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Aamir Khan]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sindh]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2316521</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Caterers, food centres forced to suspend orders amid increasing demand]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[An increased demand for various food items, especially Haleem, compelled caterers and pakwan centres to stop accepting further orders ahead of Ashura. Several caterers and citizens could be observed preparing and distributing religious feasts on Muharram 9 and 10. It was also a high time for decoration businesses to rent utensils and other items, needed for preparation of food. 

Muhammad Nadeem, owner of a catering service in the city, told The Express Tribune that despite high prices of ingredients, people continue preparing and distributing food items during a period from Muharram 1 to Safar 18.

According to Nadeem, Haleem is the most demanded food item during the month of Muharram and he sees an overwhelming increase in the number of orders for making this particular dish. Consequently, caterers and decoration businesses experience shortage of various items, used to prepare Haleem. He mentioned, &quot;A large number of degs have been sent to Gujranwala for preparation of Muharram feasts, and so we are unable to meet rising demand to make Haleem in the city. He added that rentals for degs are in the range of Rs1,000 to Rs1,500 per day while daily rent for wooden mixers has also surged to Rs300. The price of Kafgir, a big iron spoon used in the preparation of haleem, has also gone up. The rent of the iron tub has also gone up to Rs5,000. The rent of iron stove has gone up Rs800.

Sajid, who is in the business of making Haleem, told The Express Tribune that citizens show an increased interest to prepare haleem during the month. This year, the price of a normal deg of Haleem is in the rage of Rs8,000 to Rs10,000. He said that Liaquatabad, Federal B Area, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Kharadar, Malir and Korangi are the main areas where haleem preparation activities are seen. 

Most caterers and citizens have switched from traditional items to electric grinders and mixers to prepare haleem which are available for a daily rent of Rs500. He added that in addition to Haleem, various decorative items used in Majalis and other congregations are also in short supply these days.

A large number of citizens are buying meat, grains and other ingredients used in Haleem.

Muhammad Sajid, a cook specialising in preparing haleem, told The Express Tribune that the prices of meat and other ingredients have gone up by an estimated 15 to 25 per cent as compared to the prices seen last year. Besides, Haleem, Biryani, Chana Pulao, Kheer, Qorma, Roti and Taftan were also the most demanded food items distributed during Muharrum 9 and 10.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 21st, 2021.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1810047-haleemx-1537795278/1810047-haleemx-1537795278.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Ashura processions culminate peacefully</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2316513/ashura-processions-culminate-peacefully-1</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2316513/ashura-processions-culminate-peacefully-1#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 20 Aug 21 20:52:16 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sindh]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2316513</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[With stringent security measures in place to avoid any untoward incidents]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The main Ashura procession culminated peacefully in Karachi on Muharram 10 (Thursday) amid strict security. Paying homage to the sacrifices of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions, the central procession culminated at Hussain Iranian Imambargah in Kharadar after passing through its traditional routes. 

Stringent security measures were in place to avoid any untoward incidents during the Ashura processions this week. 

The chief minister visited the Central Police Office to oversee the security arrangements and also inspected the routes of the procession from a helicopter. Sindh Rangers Director-General Major General Iftikhar Hassan Chaudhry also paid a visit to the Rangers Control Room to oversee arrangements. The routes were also monitored through CCTV cameras and aerial surveillance. 

Sindh IGP Mushtaq Maher also lauded the arrangements made by the Sindh Police and other law enforcement agencies. 

The Sindh home department had imposed Section 144, including a ban on pillion riding during Ashura, besides suspending mobile phone services in some areas. 

On all three days - Muharram 8, 9 and 10, the main procession headed from Nishtar Park and culminated at the Hussainian Iranian Imambargah after passing through its traditional routes. A large number of mourners participated in the central procession. At least as 513 Majalis were held and 281 processions were held across the city on Thursday. 

Published in The Express Tribune, August 21st, 2021.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/623388-muharramashuraphotoonline-13829393371629187818-0/623388-muharramashuraphotoonline-13829393371629187818-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Over 200 mourning processions to be taken out today</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2316280/over-200-mourning-processions-to-be-taken-out-today</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2316280/over-200-mourning-processions-to-be-taken-out-today#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 18 Aug 21 20:11:55 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sindh]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2316280</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Hyderabad Police finalise security plan with 5,000 officers deployed]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[More than 200 mourning processions including the central one will be taken out in Hyderabad on Yom-e-Ashura on August 19 (today) with the deployment of around 5,000 policemen for security. 

The police spokesperson informed on Wednesday that around 2,000 personnel and officers including the Sindh Rangers and Rapid Response Force (RRF) will cover the main procession.

The procession, organised by Anjuman-e-Haideri, will start from Qadam Gah Moula Ali (RA) in the morning at Station Road. It will conclude after Asar prayer in the evening at Karbala Dadan Shah on Maulana Muhammad Ali Jauhar Road after walking around 1.7 kilometres.

Around 55 roads and streets intersecting route of the procession will be sealed. The participants will be allowed entrance near Bacha Khan Chowk, which is close to Qadam Gah, and that too after passing through seven walk-through gates. Body searches of the participants will also be conducted. The exit point will be at Karbala Dadan Shah.



However, it is observed that in violation of the fixed entry and exit points, the police allow the people to enter or leave the procession midway. Snipers will be deployed on buildings&#39; rooftops along the way. 

The bomb disposal squad will move ahead of the procession to clear the route. A central control room has been set up at the Sub Divisional Police Office at City Police Station, which is along the route of the procession. The room will monitor the activities with the help of the CCTV cameras.

Hyderabad Deputy Commissioner Fuad Ghaffar Soomro and Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) were said to be in coordination to keep the route clear of sewage and leakage from the water supply pipes. 

The water supply to most parts of City taluka, where the central and other main processions will be organised, will remain suspended from early morning to night of Ashura.



Around 200 big and small processions will be taken out in other part&nbsp;of City taluka as well as in Latifabad, Qasimabad, and Hyderabad rural talukas. Some 700 personnel will be deployed for the central procession of Tazia and 650 policemen for the security of Sham-e-Ghareeban majalis in various localities in the district. The police will also set up pickets on the entry and exit points of Hyderabad.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 19th, 2021.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/61629317616-0/61629317616-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Martyrs of Karbala serve as beacons of resistance: Bilawal</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2316286/martyrs-of-karbala-serve-as-beacons-of-resistance-bilawal</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2316286/martyrs-of-karbala-serve-as-beacons-of-resistance-bilawal#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 18 Aug 21 20:16:49 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sindh]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2316286</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Lesson of Ashura is to challenge Yazids of our time and stand up to them like Hussain did, says Bilawal]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Karbala serves as a reminder of the universal battle between good and evil and the importance of always standing by what is right - irrespective of the consequences for history will always bend towards the good, said Pakistan Peoples Party Chairperson Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Wednesday. 

In a statement issued by the Bilawal House Media Cell on the 9th of Muharram, Bilawal paid tribute to the sacrifices of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA). 

&quot;Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) is a lesson of courage for the people of the world, and Hussainism is another name for resistance for a noble cause.&quot; 

He said that the lesson of Ashura is to challenge the Yazids of our time and to stand up to them like Hussain did. 

The courage and sacrifice of the Ahl al-Bayt [the family of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) on the land of Karbala is one that humanity can never forget, said Bilawal, adding that their sacrifice would be remembered till the end of time. 

Read&nbsp;Punjab imposes Section 144 for Ashura

&quot;This grief does not weaken the followers of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS). Instead, it serves as a source of courage and strength.&quot;

&quot;Hussain taught us that no matter how great the sacrifice, we must not waver from our commitment to fighting for justice and freedom&quot;, he said.

The blood of innocent men, women and children, spilled at Karbala stands as a testament to the brutality of tyranny and the need to overthrow it, said the PPP chairperson.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 19th, 2021.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/WhatsApp-Image-2021-05-26-at-8-24-40-PM1624561445-0/WhatsApp-Image-2021-05-26-at-8-24-40-PM1624561445-0.jpeg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Strict security measures for Ashura</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2316293/strict-security-measures-for-ashura</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2316293/strict-security-measures-for-ashura#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 18 Aug 21 20:23:14 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Imran Asghar]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2316293</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Pak Army, Rangers, Special Branch Police, Elite Force to be deployed]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The whole country will observe Youm-e-Ashura today with due solemnity and sanctity to recall the sacrifices rendered by Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions. The Ashura observances will be carried out under strict security measures, a police spokesperson said on Wednesday.

To maintain full-proof security, mobile phone service will be suspended from early morning while barbed wire and heavy containers will be used to seal the routes of major mourning processions.

Thousands of mourners will be present in the mourning processions for whose security Pakistan Army and Rangers have been asked for help. 

The troops will take control of the sensitive areas. In addition to that, 1,000 police and other security personnel will be also deployed. 

A central control room has been set up in the office of the Municipal Corporation for close monitoring of the processions. A senior police officer said that the routes of Rawalpindi&#39;s major Ashura procession has been declared highly sensitive and aerial surveillance of these spots will be carried out. 

Additionally, a thorough search of mourners attending the procession will be ensured for which walk-through gates will be installed at Committee Chowk and Fawara Chowk while female security personnel will also be deployed for female attendees.

Expert sniper police officers equipped with drone cameras and binoculars will be deployed on the high-rising buildings around the major routes of the processions.

Before the start of the observances, the special branch and bomb disposal squad will conduct a thorough scanning of the routes and issue a clearance certificate.

Read&nbsp;Punjab imposes Section 144 for Ashura

Moreover, emergency routes have been arranged for ambulances in case of any untoward incident while Benazir Bhutto Hospital, District Headquarters Hospital and Holy Family Hospital will be kept on high alert.

Proper arrangements of street lights on the major routes of the processions will be facilitated for which IESCO staff will be deployed till the end of the Ashura observances. Additionally, mobile generators have been arranged in case of power breakdown. 

Additional force of Special Branch Police, Elite Force, Punjab Constabulary, Women Police along with district police would be deployed to ensure security.

Moreover, media coverage of the observances will be done by the representatives who have been issued passes by the police.

Medical camps along routes

The District Health Authority will set up four medical camps along the main Ashura procession route to provide first aid health care to the mourners. 

The authority spokesperson Dr Waqar Ahmed informed that medical camps would be set up at Committee Chowk, Choor Chowk, Kotwali chowk and Qasai Gali bazaar on Muharram 10. 

Published in The Express Tribune, August 19th, 2021.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/91629318286-0/91629318286-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>At least 613 Pakistanis repatriated from Afghanistan: Rashid</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2316194/at-least-613-pakistanis-repatriated-from-afghanistan-rashid</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2316194/at-least-613-pakistanis-repatriated-from-afghanistan-rashid#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 18 Aug 21 07:50:49 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2316194</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Interior minister denies report of Afghan refugees entering Pakistan]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid on Wednesday said Pakistan has repatriated at least 613 nationals from Afghanistan since the capture of Kabul by the Taliban in a lightning offensive.

Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, the federal minister said three buses with over 120 Pakistanis on board entered the country via the Chaman border crossing and&nbsp;added that efforts were afoot to repatriate the remaining citizens stranded in Afghanistan.

Rashid further said&nbsp;Pakistan has also evacuated about 900 diplomats and foreign media journalists from Afghanistan.

Speaking about the influx of Afghan refugees in Pakistan, Rashid said there were no refugees entering the country nor has Pakistan made preparation for Afghans seeking refuge in the country.

Read Explainer: How did the Taliban take over Afghanistan so quickly?

Rashid further said there was &ldquo;complete peace and tranquillity&rdquo; at Torkham and Chaman border crossings and they are open&nbsp;for movement, trade and transit visa facilities.

The interior minister added that Pakistan advocates peace and a peaceful and stable Afghanistan is in the interest of Pakistan.

He expressed confidence that the situation will improve in Afghanistan, saying Prime Minister Imran Khan tried to advise former Afghanistan president Ashraf Ghani but he didn&#39;t pay heed.

Rashid further said the decision to recognise the Taliban government in Kabul rested with the prime minister and the foreign ministry, adding that Pakistan played a key role in bringing the Taliban to the negotiation table.

According to the minister, a &quot;hybrid war&quot; is being waged against Pakistan through social media and added that the country&nbsp;will not interfere in the affairs of other countries nor will it allow others to intervene in its affairs.

Speaking about security arrangements concerning Ashura, Rashid said all law enforcement agencies were on high alert to avert any untoward incident on Muharram 9 and 10.

According to the minister, additional security personnel have been deployed for the security of mourning processions and mobile services have temporarily been suspended at some places for the security of the people.

The minister asked the participants of the processions to adhere to the SOPs to avoid the spread of COVID-19.

&nbsp;]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Sheikh-Rashid1612424228-0/Sheikh-Rashid1612424228-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Alternative traffic plan issued for Ashura processions</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2316158/alternative-traffic-plan-issued-for-ashura-processions</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2316158/alternative-traffic-plan-issued-for-ashura-processions#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 17 Aug 21 20:21:30 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[​ Our Correspondents]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2316158</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[500 officers to be deployed to provide security]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) has drawn up a deployment plan to manage traffic on alternate routes during the main processions on 9th Muharram ul Haram in the federal capital.

According to police sources, under the plan, more than 500 policemen comprising one SP, four DSPs, 17 inspectors will perform duties to divert traffic towards alternative routes when the procession is in progress.

The SSP (Traffic) will supervise the plan while traffic police personnel will be present at diversion points to guide road users. ITP FM Radio 92.4 will broadcast regular traffic updates to inform people about the traffic situation and the procession&rsquo;s progress.

The main mourning procession will be taken out from Imam Bargah Asna-e-Ashri G-6/2 on 9th Muharram-ul-Haram, which will culminate at the same place after passing through its traditional routes. During the procession, Fazal-e-Haq road, the roads from Poly Clinic to Kalsoom plaza will remain closed.

According to the plan, 7th Avenue from F-6 Chowk to Soharwardi road, Fazal-e-Haq road from China Chowk to Kalsum Plaza would be closed for general traffic. The road from Iqbal Hall to Melody Chowk, Municipal road from Markazi Jamia Masjid to Poly Clinic Chowk, Luqman Hakeem road from Poly Clinic to Lal Quarter while G-6 service road from G-6/2 Chowk to Lal Quarter Chowk will remain close for general traffic from 8 am to onward (till the end of the procession) at 8 pm. 

The police source said that traffic will be diverted towards alternate routes and citizens may use one track of 7th Avenue from Kulsoom Plaza to Chand Tara Chowk and Jinnah Avenue from Kulsoom Plaza to China Chowk.

Read&nbsp;Cellular services suspended in Peshawar ahead of Muharram procession

The other roads including 7th Avenue, Aabpara, Sehrwardy road, Shaheed Milat road may be used as alternate routes.

Another procession on 9th Muharram will start from Imambargah Musa Kazim in sector I-10/1 which will culminate back there after passing through various routes including I-10 Markaz, CDA Chowk No 1, Katarian bridge, IJP road (Pirwadhai and Faizabad area) will remain close for traffic while citizens should use IJP road if they want to proceed towards I-10 (Sabzi Mandi) from Faizabad, Murree road, Bhara Kahu or Khana bridge. Meanwhile the residents of sectors I-8, I-9 should use external IJP, Pirwadhai road.

The Islamabad Traffic Police has appealed to citizens to use alternate routes and cooperate with ITP personnel deployed at various points to guide them. 

Over 800 cops to be on Muharram duty in Abbottabad

District Police Officer (DPO) Abbottabad Zahoor Babar Afridi Tuesday issued an elaborate security plan for 9th and 10th Moharram, SP headquarters Abbottabad Malik Ejaz would perform duties as officer-in-charge.

Around 811 policemen and officers, including District police, CTD, Elite Force, Rapid Response Force (RRF), Traffic Police, Special Branch, Bomb Disposal Unit, District Security Branch, and Lady Commandos would be deputed to maintain law and order situation in district Abbottabad.

All departments concerned would provide security clearance certificates of the routes for Moharram processions and majalis after complete search and screaming operation where electricity poles, PTCL poles, post boxes, and ravines would also be checked to ensure security.

DPO Abbottabad also cancelled the holidays of all police officers and officers and conducted the mock exercise in the district.

SP traffic would also look after the Karakoram Highway (KKH), Murree Road, link Road, Majalis, and processions. All police officers were directed to remain in contact with the Fire Brigade, Hospital, Rescue 1122 and Wapda, to tackle any challenge during the duty. 

WITH ADDITIONAL INPUT FROM APP

Published in The Express Tribune, August 18th, 2021.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1053048-trafficwardenpoliceINPx-1456259722/1053048-trafficwardenpoliceINPx-1456259722.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Cellular services suspended in Peshawar ahead of Muharram procession</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2316179/cellular-services-suspended-in-peshawar-ahead-of-muharram-procession</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2316179/cellular-services-suspended-in-peshawar-ahead-of-muharram-procession#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 18 Aug 21 06:36:10 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Ali Murad]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2316179</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[1,000 personnel deployed to safeguard main procession; Section 144 imposed]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Cellular services were suspended in the provincial capital of Peshawar to ensure security on the 9th of Muharram-ul-Haram on Wednesday.

The main procession emerged from the Imam Bargah Hussainia, with Saddar and all adjacent markets closed on the occasion.

Authorities said foolproof security measures have been adopted in Peshawar and the bomb disposal unit has swept the area.

Moreover, snipers were also posted on top of buildings for extra security. The authorities imposed a ban on the entry of Afghan refugees in the city on the occasion.

A ban was also imposed on pillion riding, while Section 144 was put in place to ensure further security.

Some 1,000 security personnel were deputed to secure the routes of the procession, which will cross the Fawara Chowk, Kali Bari and other traditional areas to culminate at the Imam Bargah at 4pm.

On Monday, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Mahmood Khan was briefed in detail about the possible security threats that could arise in light of the evolving scenario in neighbouring Afghanistan where the Taliban returned to power after 20 years as US and NATO troops exited the country.

While chairing a meeting to review the law and order situation, Khan announced to beef up security throughout the province especially the entry and exit points.

During the meeting, he highlighted that the situation in Afghanistan will have a direct impact on K-P and it warrants extraordinary security arrangements.

The chief minister ordered the police and other law enforcing agencies to be more vigilant and proactive, directing them to continue operations against anti-state elements more effectively and to expand coordination with intelligence agencies.

He termed maintenance of law and order as the foremost responsibility of the government, adding that the provincial government would ensure all the necessary measures to ensure stability in the province.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/21626117679-1/21626117679-1.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Cellular services to be suspended during Ashura</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2315961/cellular-services-to-be-suspended-during-ashura</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2315961/cellular-services-to-be-suspended-during-ashura#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 16 Aug 21 20:53:00 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2315961</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[RCB completes patchwork along procession routes]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The government has decided to suspend cellular phone service during the Muharram processions. The 3G/4G service will remain suspended in areas along the route of the main processions during Youm-e-Ashura.

Sources said the decision to shut down mobile service was taken at a high-level security meeting and a directive in this respect has been sent to the service providers as well. 

A senior police official, who is part of the team to provide security for the public gatherings on the occasion who talked to The Express Tribune on the condition of anonymity said that the Muharram 7 to Muharram 10 processions have been placed in the A-plus category. 

He said that Muharram 7 procession starting from Saeen Sadiq&rsquo;s house and Youm-e-Ashura cortege starting from Imam Bargah Ashiq Hussain also fall in the above category.

The police official said that cellular phone services would be suspended on Muharram 7 from 5 am until the procession culminates. He added that the procession will end at Qadeemi Imam Bargah after passing through its traditional routes.

Similarly, the procession starting from Imam Bargah Ashiq Hussain will culminate at the same point on Youm-e-Ashura. The official said that cellular service will be suspended in certain areas including Syedpur Road, Pandora, Asghar Mall Road, Pir Wadhai Bus Stand, City Saddar Road, Kashmiri Bazaar, Iqbal Road, Liaquat Road, Gawalmandi, Raja Bazaar, Dengue Khoi, Bazaar Kalan, Jamia Masjid Road, Bani Chowk, Commercial Market, Murree Road, Committee Chowk, Rata Amral, Sadiqabad, Glass Factory Chowk, Zafarul Haq Road, Shaheen Chowk, Transformer Chowk and its close vicinity.

Sources said that the police have started placing containers and heavy vehicles to close access to bazaars, streets, roads and neighbourhoods on the processional routes. The administration will provide alternative routes to ensure the security of the processions.

Sources said the suspension of mobile service will not affect the wireless system of police and security agencies but would affect CCTV-equipped vehicles depending on mobile 3G/4G internet.

For this purpose, the police have arranged additional recordings to ensure coverage of the main processions. 

Sources added that mobile service will remain closed till the end of all A-plus category processions.

Meanwhile, the Rawalpindi Cantonment Board (RCB) has finalised arrangements for Ashura, besides completing patchwork at the routes of mourning processions, repairing roads, street lights and removal of encroachments.

According to RCB spokesperson, Qaiser Mahmood, the RCB&rsquo;s anti-encroachment team was conducting operations daily to clear different areas while the Board confiscated 11 truckload goods under its special operation against encroachment conducted during last week. 

Read&nbsp;Govt announces two-day public holiday on Aug 18-19 for Ashura

He said that the RCB&rsquo;s anti-encroachment teams conducted raids in different areas, including Tench Bhatta, Peoples Colony, Dhoke Syedan, Bakra Mandi Road, Misrial Road, Allahabad, Westridge Bazar, Mehfooz Road, Haider Road, Bank Road, Adam Jee Road, Hathi Chowk, Chor Chowk, Saddar and other areas. 

He added that special instructions had been issued to the officials concerned that there should be no encroachment, particularly on the route of Muharram processions.

The operation would continue and strict action in accordance with the law would be taken against the rules violators, he said, adding that the patchwork, especially at the route of the Muharram processions, had been completed.

Street lights along the routes of the mourning processions had also been repaired besides special cleanliness arrangements to facilitate the mourners.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 17th, 2021.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/623388-muharramashuraphotoonline-13829393371629187818-0/623388-muharramashuraphotoonline-13829393371629187818-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>King of Qawwali NFAK's anniversary celebrations muted out of respect for Ashura</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2315879/king-of-qawwali-nfaks-anniversary-celebrations-muted-out-of-respect-for-ashura</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2315879/king-of-qawwali-nfaks-anniversary-celebrations-muted-out-of-respect-for-ashura#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 16 Aug 21 11:40:42 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Adnan Lodhi]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Music]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2315879</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[24 years ago, the ‘Shahenshah-e-Qawwali’ died of a sudden cardiac arrest at Cromwell Hospital in London today.]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Today marks 24 years since the &lsquo;Shahenshah-e-Qawwali&rsquo; Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan bid farewell to this world after immortalizing himself through his music. Sargam Digital, the studio-cum-shrine where his voice still reverberates, honours the late maestro annually on August 16. However, the customary practice could not be carried out this year out of respect for Muharram. 

Raza Shah, who helms the recording facility once owned by Khan, told The Express Tribune about how it misses his presence till this day. How Khan, who&rsquo;d often sleep in the studio, only to wake up and spell magic with his gifts, is etched in the memory of its inhabitants. 

The escape

&quot;Every year, we dedicate this month to honour the late NFAK, because of whom this studio still exists. We invite veteran artistes, Khan&rsquo;s friends and hold a prayer ceremony. But this year, his death anniversary arrived in the wake of Muharram, so we decided not to host anything,&rdquo; Shah disclosed. &ldquo;But it goes without saying that we missed him greatly and with his splendid work at our disposal, we treasure him daily,&rdquo; he added.

Sargam Studio, was set up by the renowned Qawwal in 1983, as one walks into the studio &mdash; still home to the instruments and equipment once used by Khan &mdash; the space immediately strikes a chord that plucks at the memory of a man who serenaded us with his melodious voice. Khan used the studio at the peak of his career, recording some of his most eminent Qawwalis including the famous Ali Da Malang here. Not all that he recorded, however, was released during his lifetime. In fact, some unreleased recordings are still said to be tucked away safely within the confines of the space. 

Veteran songwriter Altaf Bajwa, who is a regular attendee at Sargam Studio&rsquo;s annual events, went on to add, &ldquo;I make it a point to attend the ceremony at Sargam studio every year. The event is always a stark reminder of what a legend NFAK sahab was. But we said our prayers at home this year owing to the delicacy of the situation.&rdquo;

24 years ago, Khan was taken ill with kidney and liver failure on August 11, 1997 in London, England. While, on the way to Los Angeles in order to receive a kidney transplant, he died of a sudden cardiac arrest at Cromwell Hospital in London on August 16, 1997 at the age of 48.

The legacy

Born in Faisalabad on October 13, 1948, Khan was undoubtedly the greatest Qawwal this world has ever seen. It was due to his efforts and collaborations with various Western artistes that Qawwali became a popular genre globally.

His first public performance was a studio recording broadcast as part of an annual music festival organised by Radio Pakistan, known as Jashn-e-Baharan. Khan sang mainly in Urdu, Punjabi and occasionally in Persian, Brajbhasha and Hindi.

He teamed with Peter Gabriel on the soundtrack of The Last Temptation of Christ in 1985, with Canadian musician Michael Brook on the albums Mustt Mustt (1990) and Night Song (1996) and with Pearl Jam lead singer Eddie Vedder in 1995 on two songs for the soundtrack to Dead Man Walking. He also contributed to the soundtrack of Natural Born Killers.

His album Intoxicated Spirit was nominated for a Grammy award in 1997 for best traditional folk album. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, Khan holds the world record for the largest recorded output by a Qawwali artist; a total of 125 albums as of 2001.

TIME magazine&#39;s issue of November 6, 2006, &lsquo;60 Years of Asian Heroes&rsquo;, lists Nusrat as one of the top 12 Artists and Thinkers of the prior 60 years. Five documentaries have also been made on him.

In memoriam 

Remembering the late legend, South Asian Classical singer Hussain Bakash Gulu remarked, &ldquo;Khan was enriched with a beautiful voice and peoples were in love. He is one of the few Qawwals whose popularity only increased after his death and is increasing till this day as a slew of new generation musicians from around the globe listen to his music for inspiration. He was a blessing for the country and also for the music industry.&rdquo;

Qawwals Shair ali and Mahar Ali also lamented, &quot;No such Qawwal can ever come again, Nusrat was the only one. His family was a big gharana and no Qawwal in Qawwali&rsquo;s history can ever match up to him.&rdquo;

Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/44461629114301-0/44461629114301-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Govt announces two-day public holiday on Aug 18-19 for Ashura</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2315436/govt-announces-two-day-public-holiday-on-aug-18-19-for-ashura</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2315436/govt-announces-two-day-public-holiday-on-aug-18-19-for-ashura#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 13 Aug 21 14:17:04 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[news.desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2315436</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Interior ministry issues notification announcing public holidays to mark the martyrdom of Imam Hussain]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Federal Interior Ministry on Friday announced a two-day public holiday in view of the 9th and 10th of Muharram on August 18 and 19 (Wednesday and Thursday).

A notification issued in this regard said that August 18 and 19, 2021 shall be public holidays on the occasion of Ashura (9th and 10th Muharram 1443 AH).

Muharram is the month of mourning for the seventh-century martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).Read more: Muharram moon sighted, Ashura on August 19

Security is beefed up across the country for the many processions taken out by the believers.

The country has seen a raft of attacks at imambargahs and processions in the past.

Earlier in the month, Sindh government imposed a pillion riding ban in Karachi on the occasion of Ashura.

Also read: Call for unity during Muharram

&ldquo;In continuation and partial modification of this department&rsquo;s notification of even number dated, 28-7-2021, the ban on pillion riding for Karachi Division shall be for 8th, 9th and 10th Muharram 1443 AH, 2021,&quot; the provincial home department&#39;s notification had said.

Like last year, this Muharram will also be observed under the Covid-19 pandemic and authorities have warned the citizens to strictly adhere to the standard operating procedures (SOPs) including mask-wearing and social distancing to avoid spike in number of coronavirus cases and deaths.

(With additional input from APP)]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/623388-muharramashuraphotoonline-1382939337/623388-muharramashuraphotoonline-1382939337.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>NCOC issues guidelines for Muharram gatherings</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2315042/ncoc-issues-guidelines-for-muharram-gatherings</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2315042/ncoc-issues-guidelines-for-muharram-gatherings#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 11 Aug 21 06:45:04 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2315042</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Vaccination coverage tops 40 million mark as death toll soars past 24,000]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) issued special instructions on Tuesday for managing activities during the holy month of Muharram under the Covid-19 standard operating procedures (SOPs) to contain the pandemic.

The forum issued these instructions keeping in view the recommendations of the Ulema concerned. The NCOC guidelines underlined that all Muharram gatherings and processions would be held under Covid-19 SOPs.

&ldquo;Use of face masks, social distancing, thermal screening during religious processions will be ensured by the administration of that event,&rdquo; the guidelines said. &ldquo;Private gatherings at homes will be discouraged. Sanitizers and masks would be provided at the venues of the gatherings and processions.&rdquo;

The NCOC guidelines noted that the Muharram gatherings would be held in ventilated and open spaces. In addition, coronavirus SOPs will be prominently displayed during the rallies and processions throughout Muharram.

The NCOC, which serves as the nerve centre of the government&rsquo;s unified effort to contain the spread of the deadly contagion, has also geared up its nationwide vaccination campaign as the fourth wave of the disease grips the country.

On Tuesday, the health officials announced that the vaccination process crossed the halfway mark of the target of inoculating 70 million people by the yearend. So far, a total of 41,818,881 people have been vaccinated across the country, according to official figures.

Read NCOC bans train travel for unvaccinated citizens from Oct 1

According to official statistics, 1,897,649 people have so far received both doses of the vaccine. The data showed a total of 1,124,306 people were vaccinated in the last 24 hours, of which 224,219 were given the second dose of the vaccine.

The NCOC said in its daily update that the national tally of active Covid-19 cases recorded a persistent rise on Tuesday, rising to 84,427 on Tuesday. During the past 24 hours, the forum said, 3,884 more people tested positive for the virus while 2,669 people recovered from the disease.

Among the active cases, the forum said, the number of critical patients had also risen to an alarming level, saying that at present, 4,530 patients were admitted to various Covid-dedicated healthcare facilities of the country. The national positivity ratio during the past 24 hours was 7.84%.

The daily NCOC update said that 86 patients died during the past 24 hours, raising the nationwide death toll to 24,004.The national caseload of the disease, since the start of the pandemic in February 2020, rose to 1,075,504. Of them, 967,073 people have recovered so far.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Muharram-NHD-1597559036-2/Muharram-NHD-1597559036-2.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>NCOC issues Covid-19 SOPs for Muharram majalis, processions</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2314911/ncoc-issues-covid-19-sops-for-muharram-majalis-processions</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2314911/ncoc-issues-covid-19-sops-for-muharram-majalis-processions#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 10 Aug 21 13:07:17 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2314911</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[The nerve centre of Covid-19 directs to hold mass gatherings in open and ventilated spaces]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) has issued the standard operating procedures (SOPs) to contain the spread of coronavirus in majalis and processions during the month of Muharram.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the NCOC directed the organisers to ensure compliance with the Covid-19 SOPs, including maintaining social distancing, mask wearing and thermal screening of the participants while holding mass gatherings.

It also directed the organisers to ensure availability of hand sanitizers and face masks at the venues of the gatherings and avoid holding majalis at homes.

The nerve centre of Covid-19 response has recommended holding mass gatherings in open and ventilated spaces.

The organisers of the gatherings can also avail services of volunteers to ensure implementation on Covid-19 SOPs, it added.

Last month, the NCOC held a special session to work out arrangements for managing the month of Muharramul Haram where ulema from all schools of thought agreed to observe the holy month under strict Covid-19 SOPs.

Also read: Muharram moon sighted, Ashura on August 19

A special meeting was held under the chairmanship of Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Pir Noor-ul-Haq Qadri on arrangements for Muharram.

The Ulema or religious scholars from Islamabad, Rawalpindi and Peshawar attended the meeting while Ulema from other provinces joined the meeting through video link.

The forum participants were apprised of the current situation of coronavirus pandemic in the country, vaccination campaign and the need to follow SOPs during meetings and processions regarding Muharram.

All the participants in the forum agreed that Muharram would be observed with devotion and respect under strict Covid-19 safety protocol and SOPs.

The management of religious gatherings would ensure the implementation of SOPs during the administration of gatherings, processions, and other ceremonies, it added.

(With input from APP)]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Muharram-NHD-1597559036-2/Muharram-NHD-1597559036-2.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>All suspects in Noor Mukadam case placed on ECL: Rashid</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2314897/all-suspects-in-noor-mukadam-case-placed-on-ecl-rashid</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2314897/all-suspects-in-noor-mukadam-case-placed-on-ecl-rashid#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 10 Aug 21 08:23:16 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2314897</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Interior minister says 3G and 4G internet suspended in ex-Fata region till Muharram 10]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid on Tuesday said the government has placed all suspects &ndash; including the parents of prime accused Zahir Jaffer &ndash; linked to the murder of Noor Mukadam on the no-fly list to bar them from leaving Pakistan.

Speaking to the media in Islamabad, the interior minister said the decision to place the suspects on the Exit Control List (ECL) was taken in a meeting held on Monday to discuss progress in the case.

Mukadam, a daughter of a former Pakistani diplomat, was found brutally murdered in a posh neighbourhood of the federal capital on July 20. Subsequently, the police charged Zahir Jaffer, a US national, with murder.

According to investigators, the two were friends, and Jaffer lured Mukadam, the daughter of Pakistan&#39;s former envoy to South Korea, to his home, held her hostage for two days, and then committed the brutal act.

Read Grisly murder of Noor Mukadam sparks outrage over femicides in Pakistan

Rashid, in his talk with the media, also expressed resolve to ensure foolproof security arrangements during Muharram amid strict compliance with the Covid-19 SOPs.

He said in order to ensure security in Muharram, the government has decided to suspend 3G and 4G services from Muharram 1 to Muharram 10 in the newly merged districts of K-P.

The interior minister appealed to the mourners to strictly observe precautionary measures as laid down by the National Command and Operations Centre to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic and said he has already directed the chief secretaries and police chiefs of all provinces to provide foolproof security to the Shia community. More security measures will be announced in the next two days, he added.

Responding to a question regarding the Dasu bus attack, the minister said law enforcement agencies have completed their investigation in the Dasu bus blast case and the foreign minister will disclose the details along with Chinese officials at an appropriate time.

Rashid further reiterated that Pakistan was not interfering in occupied Kashmir as claimed by the Indian home minister. He said Line of Control (LoC) was completely fenced and no fighters from the Pakistani side of the border were entering Indian Illegaly Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

The Indian ministry should provide evidence to back such claims up, he added.

Afghan peace

Speaking about the situation in Afghanistan, the interior minister said Pakistan wants peace in Afghanistan as it was essential for regional stability.

He said Pakistan never interfered in the internal matters of Afghanistan, adding that all borders with Afghanistan, including the Chaman border crossing, were sealed to prevent entry and exit of people.

The interior minister added that Pakistan always stood for peace and to achieve that it sacrificed at least 70,000 lives in the war against terrorism.

Read &lsquo;Capitulation&rsquo; of Afghan forces not Pakistan&rsquo;s fault

Regarding the alleged abduction of the Afghan envoy&rsquo;s daughter, he said Pakistan has provided all evidence to the Afghan investigation team and added that the envoy&rsquo;s daughter was not cooperating with Pakistani authorities.

According to Rashid, there was an organised anti-Pakistan campaign being run in international media to malign the country.

&ldquo;Weakening Pakistan internally is the prime agenda of the hostile agencies of India, Israel, and Afghanistan and we have to foil their designs by remaining strong.&rdquo;

Speaking about NADRA, Rashid said the government was planning to introduce integrated national identity cards that would integrate driving, arms and others licences into a single card.

He also said that in order to weed out the fake CNICs, the government will issue seven million new identity cards that were issued before the introduction of the biometric system and the government will also sack NADRA officials involved in the issuance of fake CNICs.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/2204336-rasheed-1626773874-813-640x4801626780978-0/2204336-rasheed-1626773874-813-640x4801626780978-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Muharram moon sighted, Ashura on August 19</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2314716/muharram-moon-sighted-ashura-on-august-19</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2314716/muharram-moon-sighted-ashura-on-august-19#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 09 Aug 21 14:42:18 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[News Desk]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2314716</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Chairman Maulana Khabir Azad announces decision in Quetta]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Muharramul Haram crescent has been sighted and Youm-e-Ashur will be observed on Thursday, August 19, the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee announced on Monday.

The first of Muharram, which is also the first day of Hijri year 1443 according to the Islamic calendar, will be observed on Tuesday, August 10.

The announcement was made following a meeting for the moon sighting, chaired by Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Chairman Maulana Muhammad Abdul Khabir Azad in Quetta.

Also read: Call for unity during Muharram

The provincial and district moon sighting committees also held their meetings simultaneously today at their respective headquarters.

Muharram is the month of mourning for the seventh-century martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Security is beefed up across the country for the many processions taken out by the believers.

The country has seen a raft of attacks at imambargahs and processions in the past.

Like last year, this Muharram will also be observed under the Covid-19 pandemic and authorities have warned the citizens to strictly adhere to the standard operating procedures (SOPs) including mask wearing and social distancing to avoid spike in number of coronavirus cases and deaths.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Muharram-procession1598706162-0/Muharram-procession1598706162-0.png" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>‘Religious harmony crucial for law, order’</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2314697/religious-harmony-crucial-for-law-order</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2314697/religious-harmony-crucial-for-law-order#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 09 Aug 21 11:19:21 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2314697</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Buzdar stresses respecting differences can foil nefarious designs of anti-peace elements]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Punjab Chief Minister Sardar Usman Buzdar has said religious harmony was crucial for maintaining peace as well as law and order in the province.

He stated this while presiding over a meeting of the Punjab Ittihad Bainul Muslimeen Committee. Clergy, scholars and famous literary and religious personalities from all schools of thought were present on the occasion.

The chief minister claimed that the clergy and scholars had always guided the nation at every crucial time.

He lauded the role of scholars in promoting brotherhood, solidarity and religious tolerance in the country.

He further said that role of clergy in the promotion of religious harmony cannot be ignored. He added that Pakistan belongs to all of us and we can fulfil our commitments towards the country by joining hands, forgetting all differences and giving respect to each other&rsquo;s religious sentiments.

Read&nbsp;Call for unity during Muharram

&ldquo;Everyone has to play a positive role for maintaining the peaceful atmosphere of religious harmony and brotherhood for foiling the nefarious designs of antipeace elements.&rdquo;

Special Assistant to PM on Religious Harmony Tahir Ashrafi stressed upon the clergy to keep a vigilant eye on those who are spreading hate content on the internet. Zubair Ahmed Zaheer said that extending cooperation with the government was a national obligation.

Raghib Naeemi said that the government had taken timely and effective measures to maintain a peaceful atmosphere of religious harmony and brotherhood during Muharram last year.

Abdul Khabir Azad said that in order to maintain religious harmony, he visited Bhongh, Rahim Yar Khan as it is the duty of clergy and scholars to play a role of bridge to eradicate the differences.

Peer Syed Saeedul Hassan Shah said it is of utmost necessity to get aware of antipeace elements.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/buzdar1599734172-0/buzdar1599734172-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Call for unity during Muharram</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2313727/call-for-unity-during-muharram</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2313727/call-for-unity-during-muharram#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 03 Aug 21 19:50:51 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2313727</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Need to utilise all resources to maintain harmony]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[There is a need to utilise all resources to maintain religious harmony, brotherhood and peace during Muharram ul Haram, said Ittihadul Bainul Muslameen Punjab Convener Mufti Muhammad Ramzan Sialvi on Tuesday.

He was presiding over a meeting of the committee, Ittihadul Bainul Muslameen, held at the Commissioner office. Rawalpindi Commissioner Syed Gulzar Hussain Shah, Regional Police Officer Imran Ahmer, Deputy Commissioner Amir Aqiq Khan, DCs of Attock, Jehlum, Chakwal and eminent scholars of different sects including Syed Usman Noori, Mufti Mujeeb U Rehman, Allama Zahid Hussain Naqvi, Allam Zubair Ahmed Zaheer, Allama Syed Izhar Bukhari, and officials of the district administration attended the meeting.

Mufti Sialvi urged Ulema to play their role in promoting religious harmony and unity during Muharram.

&ldquo;We should follow the principles of brotherhood and tolerance to ensure peace during the holy month,&rdquo; he said.

The commissioner said security arrangements for Muharram were underway and security in the entire division would be beefed up to maintain law and order. He added that a foolproof plan would be evolved to monitor security arrangements during processions and public gatherings.

Gulzar said a cleanliness plan along procession routes would be worked out and feedback and suggestions would also be obtained from citizens. &ldquo;Maintaining religious harmony is a religious obligation for religious scholars and sectarian unity is the need of the hour,&rdquo; he added.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 4th, 2021.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Muharram1598783683-0/Muharram1598783683-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Security during Muharram</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2313695/security-during-muharram-1</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2313695/security-during-muharram-1#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 03 Aug 21 17:36:41 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Editorial]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2313695</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[In order to ensure peace and security, the police have already started to prepare their plan]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[In order to ensure peace and security during Muharram, the police have started to prepare their plan. A few days ago, in Lahore, a team of high police officials, led by the Capital City Police chief, discussed the security arrangements with stakeholders such as supervisors of Imambargahs and organisers of Majalis, religious leaders as well as members of divisional and executive peace committees. The police officials visited Imambargahs and routes of mourning processions in the city. The police have sought the cooperation of people from various groups to help maintain peace, religious and social harmony as well as the spirit of brotherhood on the occasion of Muharram.

Some 15,000 cops drawn from various squads and units of the police force will be deployed for security outside Imambargahs, along the routes of mourning processions and at public places. The police, with the assistance of the Counter Terrorism Department and the Federal Investigation Agency, will keep a strict watch on elements on social media who would try to cause hatred among people by uploading hate material. Those who spread hate through other means will also be dealt with sternly.

This year the authorities are to ensure strict security measures because of the deteriorating situation on the northwestern border and also in view of the overall political situation in the region, as it is feared that enemies might attempt to disrupt peace and tranquillity in the country. The police have also drawn attention of the people towards the external dangers the country is facing and sought their support for maintaining extra vigil against enemy machinations in order to frustrate their nefarious designs by engineering tensions in Pakistan.

Moreover, the police will also help implement SOPs against the coronavirus pandemic in view of the increase in cases of the virus, especially its more dangerous Delta mutant, in various parts of the country. The administration and the police have urged all sections of people to extend a helping hand in containing the pandemic.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 4th, 2021.

Like Opinion &amp; Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Editorial-Opinion-copy1/Editorial-Opinion-copy1.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Governor assures of  foolproof security for Muharram</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2313603/governor-assures-of-foolproof-security-for-muharram</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2313603/governor-assures-of-foolproof-security-for-muharram#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 02 Aug 21 21:09:58 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sindh]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2313603</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Urges engagement of ulema to implement Covid SOPs]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Sindh Governor Imran Ismail said on Monday that all available resources would be utilised for the foolproof security of mourners during Muharram processions.

Speaking to a 10-member delegation on Monday, he assured the uninterrupted supply of electricity and water during Muharram and Safar congregations

Stressing on the fourth wave of the pandemic currently sweeping through the country, Ismail urged the ulema and organisers of gatherings to ensure the implementation of Covid SOPs. &quot;The Government of Pakistan is seeking your full cooperation in adhering to the procedures. We can save precious lives, including those of our near and dear ones, by taking preventive measures including mass vaccination.&quot;

He outlined that the guidelines issued by the National Command and Operating Centre (NCOC) must be strictly followed. Ismail also invited practical suggestions and recommendations from the ulemas with special reference to the swift implementation of SoPs during majalis and congregations.

The delegation assured the governor of full assistance in this respect. Ismail said it was imperative to have a comprehensive security plan in place ahead of Muharram.

&quot;Majalis and processions start from the beginning of the Islamic month and continue till Chehlum, therefore, the security plan must be worked out accordingly,&quot; he said.

He urged all law enforcement agencies to be more vigilant and keep an eye on antisocial elements. He directed the strict implementation of the code of conduct, adding that the ulema and peace committees should also be engaged to maintain interfaith harmony.

&quot;Likewise, legislators and members of assemblies must also play their due role and keep effective liaison with elders of their respective constituencies and officers of LEAs&quot;, he emphasised. 

Ismail appreciated the services rendered by boy scouts who facilitated locals during congregations.

Besides others, the meeting was attended by the Governor&#39;s Principal Secretary Dr Syed Saifur-Rehman, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf MPA Firdous Shamim Naqvi, MPA Bilal Ghaffar and MPA Khurram Sher Zaman. Prominent scholar Allama Shehnshah Hussain Naqvi also participated through video link.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 3rd, 2021.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Governor-Imran-Ismaeel1625843477-0/Governor-Imran-Ismaeel1625843477-0.png" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Strict security for Chehlum ordered</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2266970/strict-security-for-chehlum-ordered</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2266970/strict-security-for-chehlum-ordered#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 04 Oct 20 20:45:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2266970</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[A total of 43 processions of Chehlum would be taken out]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Regional Police Officer (RPO) Afzaal Kausar has directed the officers concerned to make foolproof security arrangements in connection with observance of Chehlum.

Chairing a video-link meeting on Sunday, he directed all four district police officers (DPOs) in the region to ensure the use of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, installation of walk-through gates, checking of participants with metal detectors, video recording and proper arrangements of light with the coordination of the district administration on the routes of processions to avoid any untoward incident.

It was discussed in the meeting that a total of 43 processions of Chehlum would be taken out, while 61 gatherings would be held in the region.

&nbsp;

Published in The Express Tribune, October 5th, 2020.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/911245-policepeshawarmuharramx-1435480631/911245-policepeshawarmuharramx-1435480631.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>130 processions planned in Safar</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2265869/130-processions-planned-in-safar</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2265869/130-processions-planned-in-safar#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 26 Sep 20 21:27:28 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2265869</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Rawalpindi district police have finalized all the arrangements to ensure law and order during Safar like Muharram]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Rawalpindi district police, on the directives of City Police Officer (CPO) Ahsan Younis finalised have security arrangements for 130 majalis and 132 processions, to be organised by the Shia community in Rawalpindi district during Safarul Muzaffar till the Chelum of the Martyrs of Karbala. According to a police spokesman, Rawalpindi district police have finalized all the arrangements to ensure law and order during Safar like Muharram. He informed that over 500 cops were tasked to provide foolproof security cover to 21 majalis and eight processions being organized during first Safar to fifth. All available resources were being utilised to ensure law and order in the district. Under the security plan, security personnel of Special Branch Police, Elite Force, Frontier Constabulary, policewomen were deployed to ensure security, he added. The mourners were only being allowed to join the processions from entry points, he said. Strict checking of vehicles was also being made at entry and exit points of the city, he added. Parking of vehicles and motorcycles would be banned along the routes of the mourning procession while all traffic proceeding towards these routes would be diverted. 

Published in The Express Tribune, September 27th, 2020.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Muharram-NHD-1597559036-2/Muharram-NHD-1597559036-2.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item>	</channel>
                </rss>
