TAXILA: The local administration on Thursday banned the entry of 44 Sunni and 34 Shia religious leaders in Hassanabdal.

According to notification, the Ulema will not enter, reside or remain in twin cities during Muharram.

As per notification issued by the district coordination officer (DCO) here, the ban will come into force from Muharram Ist and will be effective for 90 days.

Meanwhile, the provincial government has ordered the police to boost the security for Muharram processions and congregations.

As a part of security arrangements, the government has banned transfers of police officials.

The police have also been directed to keep a check on the distribution of literature regarding extremism and the religious scholars involved in disturbing sectarian harmony.

Published in Dawn, October 31st, 2014