DERA ISMAIL KHAN: Commissioner Dera Ismail Khan Division, Zafar ul Islam, on Friday directed that all available resources be mobilised to ensure the maintenance of public order and peace during the holy month of Muharram.

He was presiding over a high-level meeting of the divisional coordination committee held at his office to review the security and administrative preparations for the upcoming majalis and processions.

The meeting was attended by RPO Syed Ashfaq Anwar, DC Dera Ismail Khan Abdul Nasir Khan, and senior officials from police, cybercrime wing, FIA, excise department, and other relevant agencies.

Addressing the meeting, the commissioner emphasised the sensitivity of Dera Ismail Khan district viz-a-viz Muharram and called for a committed and coordinated response from all departments to ensure peaceful observance of the religious events. He noted that the previous year’s Muharram passed peacefully and expressed hope for even better coordination this year. “The month of Muharram reminds us of the values of unity, peace, and brotherhood. It is our shared duty to embody and uphold these principles through our actions,” he stated.

He said that all the departments must demonstrate cooperation and ensure timely sharing of any information so that the departments concerned may take prompt action accordingly, and highlighted the role of the cybercrime wing in this regard. He directed strict surveillance of hotels, inns, and inter-district and inter-provincial movement.

He also directed the authorities must remain alert 24/7, and set up joint check posts for effective checking of passengers by all relevant departments at a single point to minimise public inconvenience

The Commissioner made it clear that provocative speeches and entry of Zakireen from outside the district will be prohibited during Muharram, while vehicles with tinted glasses have been strictly banned.

He said all the relevant departments including Pesco, health and Rescue 1122 would remain alert during Muharram to meet any emergency situation. TMA and other sanitation departments must ensure cleanliness, especially en route the religious processions.

Published in Dawn, June 21st, 2025