LAHORE: The Punjab government has requisitioned services of 150 Pakistan Army and Rangers companies to maintain law and order across the province during Muharram.

The home department has formally written a letter to the interior ministry for the purpose.

A home department spokesman says 69 companies of the army and 81 companies of the Pakistan Rangers have been demanded in line with the demand of the districts concerned.

The troops will perform the duty from Muharram 1 to 12.

Meanwhile, finance minister Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman and health minister Khawaja Salman Rafique held a meeting with a delegation of organisers of

central Muharram processions and gatherings, led by Agha Shah Hussain, at the Civil Secretariat.

The minister said the Punjab government was committed to interfaith harmony and the issues of the Shia community would be addressed. He said measures had been taken to resolve issues faced by organisers of licensed central gatherings and processions during Muharram with a focus on providing foolproof security.

They stressed that the Shia community should reach out to the government’s law and order committee for assistance throughout the year and not just during Muharram.

In light of the monsoon season, Mr Rafique said, the safety of electric appliances, poles, wires as well as installation of streetlights on the procession routes would be ensured. He said additional security personnel and dispensary facilities would be provided at key locations, including Bibi Pak Daman.

Published in Dawn, July 6th, 2024