ISLAMABAD: The main procession related to Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Husain (AS) was held on Wednesday in the capital, with relaxed security measures and no suspension of mobile phone service.

Leaders of Tehreek-i-Nifaz-i-Fiqh Jafaria (TNFJ) and Shia Ulema Council (SUC) had demanded the capital administration to gradually reduce security and allow locals to openly participate in the procession.

Residents of G-6 sector also demanded ending of restrictions at the procession route as they wanted to participate in the procession to distribute ‘niaz’ and set up sabeels for the participants.

TNFJ President Allama Basharat Imami said behaviour of the people of Pakistan irrespective of their sect or religion had proven that they were all patriotic and extended a helping hand to their countrymen in need.

“Today as we mark Defence Day; it has to be noted that we as a nation were able to beat the aggression of the enemy whether it was an external foe or a local,” Allama Imami added.

He said the country belonged to people of all faiths and beliefs and restrictions on Azadari would only create divisions in the society, adding that the recent phenomenon of registering cases against organisers of mourning processions was unjustified.

“We strongly condemn lodging of FIRs against mourners in traditional processions and majalis held at homes,” Allama Imami said, adding that, “but all those in power should understand that such pressure tactics will not stop Azadari of Imam Husain and it was hurting the sentiments of Sunni people as well who too mourned the tragic incident at Karabala”.

A large number of faithful participated in the procession where sacrifices rendered by Imam Husain (AS) and his companions were highlighted.

The main Chehlum procession was taken out from Imambargah Asna Ashri G-6/2, which culminated at the same place after passing through Service Road G-6, Lal Quarters, G-6/1-2 and Melody.

More than 1,000 law enforcement personnel were deployed on the occasion.

The Chehlum of Imam Husain (AS) is observed on the 20th day of the Islamic month of Safar. A procession is brought out in Islamabad a day earlier while the main Chehlum procession will be held in Rawalpindi on Thursday (today).

Published in Dawn, September 7th, 2023