GILGIT: Security has been tightened for Muharram across Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) as cases were registered against four individuals for posting controversial content on social media.

The GB chief minister has directed authorities to ensure foolproof security for Muharram processions and majalis (religious sittings). Commander FCNA Major General Syed Imtiaz Hussain Gillani met with prominent Shia scholar Agha Rahat Hussain Al-Hussaini and Ahle Sunnat Wal Jamat leader Qazi Nisar Ahmed on Saturday.

During the meeting, the religious leaders pledged to promote brotherhood, tolerance and religious harmony during Muharram. The Commander FCNA also visited the Safe City Project Control Room in Konodas, Gilgit.

GB Chief Secretary Abrar Ahmed Mirza, home secretary, IG police and other senior officials were present on the occasion. During the visit, the Commander FCNA was briefed on the project’s surveillance system, command and control operations and real-time response capabilities.

The Muharram security plan was also discussed. Commander FCNA termed the Safe City project a major breakthrough in maintaining law and order and stated that security forces and the Pakistan Army are fully prepared to protect the people.

Addressing a press conference, Gilgit Deputy Commissioner Ameer Azam said that nine platoons of the Pakistan Army, 13 platoons of Rangers, 15 platoons of GB Scouts and five platoons of FC, along with police personnel, will be deployed for security in Gilgit.

He stated that 12 Imambargahs in Gilgit have been declared highly sensitive, 19 sensitive and 156 normal.

There will be 60 mourning processions in Gilgit, of which 11 have been declared highly sensitive, 20 sensitive and 29 normal. He said, “We are vigilant regarding the misuse of social media.” Ameer Azam confirmed that four individuals have been booked for posting controversial content online. “Those who incite hatred will be made an example through punishment,” he said. The deputy commissioner added that a peaceful environment will be ensured in Gilgit for Muharram processions and majalis.

Earlier, CM Haji Gulbar Khan, while speaking at a high-level meeting on Muharram security arrangements, said that an exemplary atmosphere of peace and brotherhood has been established in the region. “Strict implementation of the code of conduct during Muharram will be ensured,” he said. “Strict legal action will be taken against those who violate it.”

The chief minister directed the IGP and other law enforcement agencies to strengthen security checks on all internal and external highways. He emphasised that foolproof security should be ensured for Muharram processions and gatherings and that all events should be monitored through drones and CCTV cameras.

He added, “The district administration and police have developed a strategy to maintain an atmosphere of brotherhood in collaboration with religious scholars, community elders and civil society.”

Law enforcement agencies, he said, should take timely and strict action under a zero-tolerance policy against elements disturbing peace and order.

He further directed that those spreading hateful content on social media must face strict and timely legal action.

The chief minister also ordered the enforcement of a ban on the display of weapons and called for an alternative traffic plan to ensure public convenience during Muharram processions.

On this occasion, the chief minister was given a detailed briefing by the home secretary, IGP, commissioner Gilgit, commissioner Baltistan and commissioner Diamer/Astore regarding the security and other arrangements for Muharram ul Haram.

Published in Dawn, June 29th, 2025