Punjab Government Seeks Military Support for Muharram Security

The Punjab government has formally asked for the deployment of military and paramilitary forces to support the police in ensuring security during Muharram processions across the country. The Punjab Home Department has reached out to the Ministry of Interior, seeking the presence of 150 companies of army and Rangers in various districts of the province from the 1st to the 12th of Muharram.

Specifically, the provincial government has requested 69 army companies and 81 Rangers companies for this purpose. The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is set to meet on July 6 in Quetta to sight the moon marking the beginning of Muharram. The meeting, chaired by Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, will be attended by zonal committees of Ruet-e-Hilal conducting their meetings in their respective regions.

According to forecasts, the holy month of Muharram is expected to commence on July 8 in Pakistan, leading to the observance of Ashura, the tenth day of Muharram, on July 17. If the moon is sighted on July 6, Ashura will be observed on July 16.

The Punjab government's request for military support during Muharram reflects the importance of ensuring safety and security during religious processions. By seeking assistance from the army and Rangers, the government aims to maintain peace and order during this significant period in the Islamic calendar, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to uphold public safety.