Punjab government has announced sweeping security arrangements across Lahore division, including a ban on 72 orators, ahead of Muharram.
The decision was taken during a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Law and Order chaired by Specialised Healthcare Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique. Provincial ministers and senior officers, including Home Secretary Dr Ahmad Javed Qazi, the additional IG of Special Branch and DIG of Counter-Terrorism Department attended the meeting.
According to sources, 76 firebrand speakers have been subjected to district restrictions, while 71 others face speech bans to curb sectarian incitement.
Briefings were given by the Lahore commissioner and Sheikhupura regional police offcier. The meeting was also attended by members of the divisional peace committee and religious scholars.
Security arrangements have been finalised for 5,235 majalis and 927 processions planned across the division. A joint deployment of police, Rescue 1122, Civil Defence, as well as Pakistan Army and Rangers personnel will be made to oversee law and order.
Khawaja Salman Rafique said coordination with the gathering organisers had been completed and the provincial government would also ensure uninterrupted power and water supply along all routes.
He said the religious scholars had a vital role in promoting harmony during Muharram, adding that all stakeholders were united to guarantee foolproof security.
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