Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed law enforcement agencies and district administrations across the province to remain on high alert during Muharram, stressing the need for strict security measures alongside respectful treatment of the public.
Chairing a high-level review meeting on Muharram arrangements, the chief minister emphasized that maintaining peace, protecting religious sentiments and ensuring public convenience must remain top priorities.
Maryam instructed police and administrative officials to clearly differentiate between criminal elements and law-abiding citizens.
“It is your responsibility to distinguish between criminals and the general public,” she said.
The chief minister noted that there is a separate legal procedure for dealing with criminals and made it clear that she does not support any leniency in matters involving lawbreakers. At the same time, she stressed that state institutions have a responsibility to treat ordinary citizens with dignity and respect.
“It is our responsibility to respect people of all religions and listen to public complaints and resolve them,” she said.
Multi-layer security plan ordered
The chief minister directed authorities to implement a comprehensive, multi-tier security strategy for Muharram processions and gatherings.
“Multi-layer security is extremely important so that no terrorist can reach the crowds,” she said.
Maryam Nawaz instructed all field formations to remain on high alert and ordered immediate reporting of any suspicious individuals or activities to the police.
She also directed authorities to continue combing operations, saying they play an important role in gathering intelligence and preventing threats.
Strict enforcement of law
The chief minister ordered officials to ensure the law is implemented without discrimination. She said violations of the Loudspeaker Act would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Maryam Nawaz further emphasized the importance of timely intelligence sharing and directed authorities to uproot criminal elements immediately.
“We should make full use of technology,” she said while stressing the need for modern monitoring and surveillance measures.
During the meeting, the chief minister praised various departments and ministers for their efforts during recent public events. She said ministers visited all divisions and worked tirelessly in the field.
Maryam also commended the efforts of the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), Information Department, Safe City authorities and other institutions.
“All departments did a great job. They all deserve congratulations,” she said.
According to the chief minister, Punjab has reached a new level of administrative performance due to the coordinated efforts of government departments.
Focus on cleanliness and public facilitation
Maryam Nawaz directed district administrations to ensure exceptional cleanliness arrangements along Muharram procession routes and around Imambargahs.
She noted that cleanliness drives and fragrance spraying around Eidgahs and mosques had been successfully carried out previously and should continue during Muharram.
The chief minister specifically appreciated the efforts of Provincial Minister Zeeshan Rafique and departmental officials for their work. She also praised the field teams of the Suthra Punjab programme and instructed them to maintain high standards.
“There should be no shortcomings anywhere. The upcoming Muharram should be even better than the previous ones,” she said.
Special arrangements for heat and processions
Recognizing the intense summer heat, the chief minister ordered the installation of cold water and syrup stalls along procession routes. She directed authorities to ensure water sprinkling on procession routes and instructed that all fountains should have a uniform design.
Maryam Nawaz also ordered the removal of obstacles from procession routes and directed commissioners, deputy commissioners and assistant commissioners to ensure that no open manholes remain visible.
“All commissioners and deputy commissioners should be present in the field,” she said.
Religious harmony, public cooperation
The chief minister thanked Shia scholars for their cooperation and support in maintaining peace and harmony. She acknowledged that the recent Iran war had affected the religious sentiments of many people and appealed for efforts to maintain the best possible atmosphere of peace during Muharram.
“I request everyone to establish the highest level of peace in the country during Muharram,” she said.
She added that people should feel supported and reassured during the sacred month.
Maryam Nawaz instructed ministers and government officials to remain visible in the field and maintain direct contact with operational teams. She said everyone involved in Muharram arrangements should be fully aware of standard operating procedures (SOPs).
The chief minister also ordered advance monitoring of hotels located on procession routes as part of the security plan.
“I hope this Muharram also passes peacefully and safely,” she concluded.
