LAHORE: Punjab police Inspector General Mushtaq Ahmad Sukhera has ordered three-layer security for all sensitive Imambargahs, Majalis (mourners gatherings) and Muharram processions.

Presiding over a video-link meeting of regional and district police officers, he directed his subordinates to ensure video recording of all major and sensitive processions and Majalis.

The meeting finalised the security plan for Muharam processions and Majalis.

The IG directed the RPOs and DPOs to personally monitor security arrangements for Majalis and processions in their respective divisions and districts, besides giving regular briefings to the police personnel deployed on the route of sensitive religious events.

On the occasion, Additional IG (operations) retired Capt Arif Nawaz said around 200,000 police officials will perform security duty during Muharram processions and Majalis.

He said 43,000 Police Qaumi Razakar and 98,000 volunteers would also help the police ensure security of Muharram events.

The IG directed the officers to issue special identity cards to the security personnel performing Muharram duty so that their identity could be verified.

He also ordered action against those involved in exhibition of arms, using vehicles with unauthorised tinted windows, warning lights and green number plates.

Mr Sukhera asked the officers to keep the peace committees in loop for creating inter-faith harmony.

Published in Dawn, October 6th, 2016