ISLAMABAD: The main procession related to Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) was held here Thursday with relaxed security measures.

In view of the eradication of terror from Pakistan, political groups and local residents had demanded that the unnecessary security measures be lifted along the procession routes.

The leaders of Tehreek Nifaz Fiqh-i-Jaferia (TNFJ) and Shia Ulema Council (SUC) had demanded the ICT administration gradually reduce security arrangements and allow the locals to participate in the procession openly.

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

“Today as we mark the Independence Day it has to be noted that we as a nation are able to beat the aggression of the enemy may it be the external foes or local terrorists,” he added.

He said that the country belongs to the people of all faiths and the restrictions on Azadari will only create divisions in society.

He added that the recent phenomenon of registering cases against the organisers of mourning processions was totally unethical.

The main procession of Chehlum Imam Hussain (AS) was taken out from Imam Bargah Asna Ashri G-6/2 and culminated at the same place after passing through Service Road G-6, Lal Quarter, G-6/1-2 and Melody.

The locals of G-6 too demanded ending of restrictions on the procession route as they too wanted to participate in the procession to distribute ‘niaz’ and set up sabeels for the participants.

Meanwhile, talking to media, vice chairman Majlis Wahdat Muslimeen (MWM) Allama Ahmed Iqbal Rizvi condemned lodging of FIRs against mourners in traditional processions and majalis held at homes and other restrictions imposed by the Punjab government.

Allama Rizvi added that those in power may understand that such pressure tactics will not stop Azadari of Imam Hussain, but it was hurting the sentiments of Sunni community too as they also mourn the tragic Karabala.

The weather conditions in the federal capital was mild with light rainfall and a large number faithful including women and children participated in the procession, highlighting the sacrifices rendered by Imam Husain (AS) and his companions in Karbala.

The Chehlum of Imam Hussain is observed on Safar 20, but the procession is held a day earlier in Islamabad and the main Chehlum procession will be held in Rawalpindi on Friday (today).

Published in Dawn, August 15th, 2025