The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province from 1st to 10th Muharram to maintain peace during the religious period.
The decision includes sweeping restrictions aimed at preventing sectarian tension, inflammatory slogans, and public disorder.
Authorities say the measures are focused on ensuring security, harmony, and protection of life and property.
Section 144 enforced across Punjab
The Punjab Home Department has formally imposed Section 144(6) of the Criminal Procedure Code, 1898, across the province in view of Muharram-ul-Haram.
Officials said the step has been taken to maintain law and order and ensure religious harmony during processions and gatherings.
The restrictions will remain in force from the 1st to 10th Muharram across Punjab.
Under the new restrictions, display of all types of weapons and firearms in public places has been completely banned without permission from the authorized authority.
The government has also prohibited inflammatory slogans, gestures, and any public expression that could hurt religious sentiments or fuel sectarian division.
Strict action will be taken against individuals using social media or other platforms to spread communal hatred or sectarian provocation.
Officials emphasized that any statements or comments inciting sectarian or racial hatred fall under the restriction framework.
Public movement restrictions
The Punjab government has also introduced movement-related restrictions to ensure safe passage of Muharram processions.
Double riding on motorcycles will be banned on 9th and 10th Muharram, except for senior citizens, women, and law enforcement personnel.
Additionally, all restrictions except the double riding ban will remain effective throughout the first ten days of Muharram.
Residents have been prohibited from constructing temporary structures or “morchas” on rooftops along procession routes.
People are also barred from collecting stones, bricks, bottles, or garbage on rooftops along procession paths.
Roof access and crowd control measures
The order further restricts spectators from standing on rooftops or shop windows along procession routes.
Authorities said these steps are necessary to avoid any untoward incident and ensure smooth movement of processions.
The Home Department has directed that all restrictions be widely publicized through media outlets to create public awareness.
The Punjab Home Department reiterated that protecting lives and property remains the top priority during Muharram.
Officials stated that the enforcement of Section 144 is aimed at maintaining peace and preventing any sectarian flare-ups during the religious observance.
Authorities have warned that violations of the imposed restrictions will result in strict legal action.
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