Shrouq Tariq
10th Muharram popularly known as “Ashura” is being observed all over the Muslim world today, including Pakistan. Ashura marks the day the Battle of Karbala took place, resulting in Hussain ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), being martyred along with his supporters. In Pakistan, the day is marked with mourning rituals and passion plays re-enacting the martyrdom. Hundreds of Shia men dressed in black also parade through the streets slapping their chests and chanting, etc.
Authorities have put in place strict security measures all over the country to protect the “Azadars” (mourners) and security forces are put on high alert across the country.
The government has directed the district police chiefs to hold special briefing sessions for the security force and with a specific emphasis on deployment of personnel at the venues of Majalis and procession routes.
Ashura processions could prompt severe traffic delays in areas with significant Shi’a populations. Authorities will likely implement road closures and traffic diversions and restrictions, especially along the procession routes.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad Qazi Jamil Ur Rehman said that capital police are utilizing all available resources including the latest technology for the security of Muharram processions so that citizens can worship without any fear or apprehensions.
According to City Police Officer (CPO) Rawalpindi, DIG, Muhammad Ahsan Younas, as many as 6,000 to 9,000 police personnel were deployed to ensure security of 1,925 established Majalis and 447 traditional or licensed processions including five main mourning processions for which the deployment would be ensured through security order. Army and Rangers would also be available for 7th and 10th Muharram security, he informed.
In Karachi around 5000 personnel are securing the processions for 8th, 9th and 10th of Muharram.
At least 4,200 security personnel including police, Baluchistan constabulary, RRG, ATF and Frontier Corps had been deployed to ensure foolproof security for Muharram-ul-Haram procession in Quetta.
The reason for this fool proof security measures is due to the fact that in the past some Sunni militant groups have attacked Shia possessions in different parts of the country causing many deaths.
