January 08, 2009	Thursday	Muharram 10, 1430

PESHAWAR, Jan 7: The procession of the 9th Muharram was taken out here on Wednesday and concluded peacefully amid strict security.

The procession came out of Imam Bargah Hussania and concluded at the same place after passing through its specified routes in main Saddar and Kali Bari areas.

Participants of the procession were mourning over the Karbala tragedy by beating their chests and flagellating with sharpen metals.

Officials of the health department, civil defence and ambulances of different organisations were present on the occasion to provide treatment to any mourner who gets injury. Speakers highlighted the sacrifices of the martyrs. Female mourners also participated in the procession.

Some processions would be taken out in the city on the night of 9th Muharram. Processions would also be held in different Imam Bargahs in the city areas including Kochi Bazaar, Kohati Gate, Jehangir Pura, Andersher, Lahori Gate.

Stringent security measures have been taken by law enforcing agencies including the police and Frontier Constabulary to pre-empt any untoward happening. All routes from, where the procession will pass on 10th Muharram, have been almost sealed and no one is allowed to enter the area.

The provincial government has requested the army to remain on call. — APP

Our Correspondent from Haripur adds: The procession of 9th Muharram was taken out amid tight security here on Wednesday.

The procession started from Imambargah Imamia Sajjadia Muhalla Motian and terminated at Imambargah Muhalla Chowki police after passing through its traditional route.

The mourners beat their chests remembering the martyrdom of Imam Hussain and his companions.

Dr Hassnain Raza Turabi highlighted the sacrifices of Imam Hussain for the cause of Islam at Karbala on the occasion. He said that the Muslims were again faced with the situation that necessitated conquer of Khyber by Hazrat Ali.

He said anti-Islam lobbies were out to harm Muslim states and called for unity and inculcation of spirit of sacrifice among the Muslims. He condemned the war hysteria after the Bombay terror attack.