FOR some years now, the first 10 days of Muharram have been a relatively violence-free period — a marked difference from a decade ago when processions would be attacked by terrorists and result in mass casualties. Still, although the authorities have managed to improve security at this religious event through a crackdown on militancy, divisions and hatred have not gone away. The deadly attack on an Ashura procession in Bahawalnagar this week left at least two dead and several injured. The attack took place despite mobile phone networks being jammed, an extreme security measure taken for years by the authorities to disrupt communication channels between terrorists and also to limit the possibility of bomb detonation via a mobile device. Some of the roads leading up to the procession, too, were blocked to thwart a terror incident. Still, the attacker apparently managed to find his way to the procession and hurl a hand grenade.

This attack is a reminder that counterterrorism agencies cannot afford to let their guard down even for a moment, while the government for its part must intensify efforts to promote inter-sect harmony. Violence against Shias, especially the country’s Hazara community, has been relentless, and is born from deep-rooted intolerance and hatred. Unfortunately, in the past violent sectarian groups allegedly enjoyed the patronage of some elements in the state. These rabid groups should not be allowed to spew their venom at any cost. Just last year, three massive anti-Shia rallies were staged in Karachi where takfiri slogans were raised. One of them included speakers from the banned ASWJ. Under no circumstances should such anti-Shia groups be allowed to gather and propagate their violent ideology. Their activities fly in the face of the National Action Plan, under which years ago the authorities pledged to declare a ‘war against sectarianism’ as well as those aiding and abetting such actions. The government and agencies must be vigilant in dismantling not just these sectarian terror groups but also monitor and shut down sectarian hate speech.

Published in Dawn, August 21st, 2021