LAHORE: The Punjab government has banned pillion riding on Muharram 9 and 10 besides other measures to ensure peaceful environment during Muharram.

In a notification, the Punjab Home Department has stated that there exist threats to the law and order, sectarian harmony and public peace in the province by militants, extremists and other anti-social elements.

In order to prevent disturbance of public peace and tranquility from Muharram 1 to 10, the department has banned gathering of five or more persons except for Muharram processions without permission from the district government. The government says there should be no procession except those for Muharram and those allowed to hold such gatherings will be required to observe timings and code of conduct as envisaged in the licence.

Holding any procession/majlis, which is not permitted in advance, has also been banned as well as obstructing any Muharram procession whether licensed or permitted by the competent authority.

The order says construction of illegal “morchas” on the rooftops of the houses situated on the route of Muharram procession, sitting or standing on the roofs of the houses/shops situated on either side of the routes at the time of process of Tazia/Alam/Zuljinnah etc by any person on any day of Muharram and standing of spectators on the planks in front of shops has been banned. Presence of onlookers near processions has also been prohibited.

In order to ensure complete security for the processions, the government has ordered closure of all shops.

The Punjab government has directed the deputy commissioners, district police officers and peace committees to ensure implementation of the order.

Published in Dawn, September 24th, 2017