TAXILA: The main Zuljinnah procession commemorating Imam Husain’s Chehlum in Attock was taken out on Sunday from Imambargah Panjtani amid tight security.

The tragedy of Karbala teaches people that they must uphold values of righteousness for eternal success, religious scholar Zakir Amir Rabbani of Bhakhar said, while addressing participants (also called azadars) of the majlis.

He narrated difficulties faced by Imam Husain and his followers for the glory of Islam and narrated several events from the imam’s journey towards Karbala which led to his martyrdom. Imam Husain is the symbol of a unique philosophy and way of life which draws a line of demarcation between nobility and evil, he said, adding we must realise our responsibilities as a nation and promote unity and religious harmony among our ranks.

Stalls (sabeels) offering water, milk and food were setup under the surveillance of security personnel on the route of the procession to facilitate mourners.

The tehsil administration had made excellent arrangements for the procession while local police maintained complete vigilance to make the event peaceful. Strict security measures were taken by law enforcement agencies. Iron wires were places along the procession route and police personnel were deployed on roof tops. A special mobile medical team of District Headquarters Hospital Attock and Rescue 1122 provided medical treatment to the mourners and remained on standby to handle any emergency.

Deputy Commissioner Hasan Waqar Chema, District Police Officer Imran Razzaq personally visited the route of the procession to check the security and administrative arrangements along with Assistant Commissioner Summan Abbas, DSP Javed Akhtar Jatoi, DSP Azhar Shabeer, Station House Officer Hamid Kazmi, SHO Mazhar Shah, Chief officer (municipal committee) Hasan Karamat, Secretary Inspector Amir Illayas and other officials.

Published in Dawn, September 12th, 2022