The provincial government of Punjab has imposed Section 144 across the province for the duration of Muharram in a bid to maintain law and order, safeguard public safety, and promote religious harmony, officials said on Wednesday.
Authorities said today the restrictions would remain effective from the 1st to the 10th of Muharram, with a range of preventive measures enforced throughout the province under directives issued by the Home Department.
According to the official notification, the government has barred any new innovations or alterations in religious processions and gatherings. The public display of weapons and flammable materials without prior authorization from competent authorities has also been strictly prohibited.
Officials further stated that provocative slogans, gestures, or actions capable of inciting sectarian tension or hurting religious sentiments would not be tolerated. They added that hate speech or sectarian content circulated through social media or any other platform would attract strict legal action.
The notification also prohibited rooftop gatherings and the use of makeshift structures along procession routes. Residents have been directed not to store stones, bottles, bricks, or any other objects on rooftops, citing security concerns. In addition, authorities have banned spectators from standing on rooftops or projecting structures along procession routes.
A temporary restriction on pillion riding will be enforced on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, with exemptions granted to women, senior citizens, and law enforcement personnel, officials said. All other restrictions will remain in place throughout the 10-day period.