Punjab imposes section 144 across province for Muharram

The Punjab government on Wednesday imposed restrictions across the province under Section 144 (6) of The Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898 for Muharram-ul-Haram 1448, citing concerns over public order and religious harmony.

According to an order issued by the home department on June 10, 2026, under Order No. SO (IS-II)1-1/2004, the restrictions are aimed at countering "potential threats to public peace and tranquility and religious harmony by miscreants and extremist elements" and preventing "sectarianism and violence during Muharram, 2026".

The order, issued by the secretary, government of the Punjab, home department, prohibits the innovation of new processions or Majalis from 1st to 10th Muharram across the province.

It also bans the carrying of bamboo sticks (batons), knives, daggers, spears, "any article which can be used as a weapon of offence" and combustible material in public places unless specifically permitted by a competent authority.

The notification further prohibits "raising slogans, making visible signs or representations which may incite public sentiments" or target the beliefs of any sect, community or group.

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Restrictions have also been imposed on the dissemination of information through any information system, device or media, including social and digital media, where such content is intended to incite sectarian hatred or contains abusive or derogatory remarks that may provoke interfaith, sectarian or racial hatred.

As part of security measures along procession routes, the order prohibits the construction of firing bays, or "Morchas", on rooftops of houses and buildings. It also bans the collection of stones, bricks, bottles or rubbish on procession routes and prohibits sitting or standing on the roofs of shops and houses situated on either side of the routes during processions.

In addition, a complete ban on pillion riding will remain in force from 9th to 10th Muharram. The notification states that exemptions will apply only to senior citizens, women, Rescue 1122 personnel and personnel of law enforcement and intelligence agencies.

The home department directed that wide publicity be given to the order through the Official Gazette, daily newspapers, Radio Pakistan, Pakistan Television (PTV) and other television channels.