Across sectarian aisles: District authorities muster support for a peaceful Muharram

Peshawar Commissioner meets religious groups to consolidate security recommendations.

HARIPUR/ PESHAWAR:

Members of Idara Tablighul Islam and Anjuman Taleemul Quran met Peshawar Commissioner Munir Azam at his office separately on Tuesday to discuss Muharram security. The commissioner asked all religious sects to give their recommendations and help build consensus on how to improve the security plan.

The 30-member Idara delegation was led by Syed Mahir Shah while the Anjuman’s delegates were led by Maulana Irshadul Haqqani and Maulana Hussain Ahmed Madani.

The delegations assured the commissioner they would play their role in the maintenance of harmony and law and order. They announced all possible assistance to the district administration in this regard.

It was also decided that wall chalking, pillion riding, cars without number plates and cars with tinted windows will be banned during the month.

Deputy Commissioner (DC) Zaheerul Islam and CCPO Ijaz Mohmand were also present for the meetings.

Ulemas to ensure peace

Ulemas from different sects gave assurances on Tuesday to ensure peace during Muharram by exercising restraint and promoting sectarian harmony.

The announcement was made at a meeting of a Haripur district peace committee with DC Nisar Ahmed in the chair. Ulemas from Ahle Hadith, Barelvi, Deobandi and Shia sects, and members of peace committees from various union councils were in attendance.

DPO Khurram Rasheed briefed the audience about the arrangements for security during the processions and majalis.

Meanwhile, the DC told participants over 500 processions and majalis will take place on approved routes and locations. He added nobody would be allowed to deviate from this plan. Security would remain on alert across the district and special arrangements were being made for processions thought to be sensitive, added Ahmed.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 22^nd, 2014.