LAHORE: The Punjab government on Thursday decided to have the ban on drone cameras strictly imposed and the code of conduct implemented during Muharram to avert any untoward incident and ensure sectarian harmony.

The decision to the effect was taken at a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Law and Order which was presided over by Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Raja Muhammad Basharat here at the Civil Secretariat.

The meeting reviewed security arrangements for Muharram. It decided to strictly implement the ban on drone cameras imposed by the interior division, issuing necessary directions to divisional commissioners and regional police officers in this regard.

The minister directed that strict implementation of the code of conduct and foolproof security be ensured during Muharram. He said ulema and legislators should also be engaged to maintain atmosphere of religious harmony and brotherhood.

Chief Secretary Akbar Durrani said protection of life and property of people was the prime responsibility of the government, adding that all possible steps would be taken for maintaining atmosphere of national solidarity, religious harmony and brotherhood during the holy month. He said the law-enforcement agencies should work in tandem and remain alert to deal with any emergent situation.

Secretary Home Department Nasim Nawaz told the meeting that his department had already issued necessary directions regarding security arrangements during Muharram. He said a central control room would start working at the Civil Secretariat from Muharram 1.

He mentioned that 37,414 Majalis would be held and 10,157 processions taken out in the province during the month. Volunteers would be given three-day training, he added.

The meeting was attended by the IGP, the Additional IG Special Branch, the Additional IG Counter-Terrorism Department, the Commissioner Lahore Division, the CCPO Lahore, the DIG Operations Lahore and other officers concerned. Divisional commissioners and regional police officers joined the meeting through video link.

Published in Dawn, September 7th, 2018