GILGIT: The Gilgit-Baltistan government on Tuesday finalised plan for security of mourning processions during Muharram across the region.

The entry of eight religious leaders including Maulana Mohammad Ahmed Ludhianvi, Aurangzab Farooqi, Mohammad Azam Moaviya, Allama Ilyas Ghuman, Allama Raja Nasir Abbas, Allama Sajid Naqvi and Allama Arif Wahidi has been banned in Gilgit-Baltistan during Muharram.

According a notification issued by Gilgit Deputy Commissioner Samiullah Farooq, the entry and stay of those religious leaders could create law and order situation in the region therefore their entry was banned for the next 60 days.

The administration has decided to register FIR under anti-terrorism law against those, who misused loud speakers or were involved in distribution of hate material and chanting controversial slogans.

The administration has also imposed ban on sale and purchase of weapons and explosives.

After attending a meeting in Skardu, IGP Sanaullah Abbasi told journalists that law enforcement agencies were alert to avoid any untoward incident. He said that mobile phone service in sensitive areas of the region would remain off on 9th and 10th of Muharram.

The IGP said that personnel of police, GB Scouts and Pakistan Rangers would be deployed for security of mourning processions. He said army could be called in case of emergency.

Published in Dawn, September 19th, 2018