Nationwide Deployment of Pakistan Army and Civil Armed Forces for Muharram Security

Strategic Insights -

The interior ministry has approved the deployment of the Pakistan Army and civil armed forces across the country for security during Muharram-ul-Haram, a month of mourning observed by Shia Muslims worldwide. The approval followed requests from all provincial governments, as well as the governments of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The deployment will be carried out under Sections 4 and 5 of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997, for Muharram security duties in aid of civil power.

Key Takeaways:

  • The deployment of Pakistan Army and civil armed forces is a nationwide effort, covering all provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Islamabad.
  • The exact number, date, and area of deployment will be determined by provincial governments in consultation with concerned stakeholders.
  • The deployment is authorized under Sections 4 and 5 of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997, for Muharram security duties in aid of civil power.
  • Authorities will take strict legal action against individuals spreading religious hatred on social media during Muharram.
  • Clear recommendations will be sent to Pemra and PTA to curb hate content on electronic and social media.
  • Decisions regarding internet and mobile service suspensions will be made in consultation with provinces, based on ground realities and security concerns.
  • Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi chaired a meeting on nationwide Muharram security plan, reviewing security plans for all provinces and deciding on measures to ensure peace and order.
  • Ashura, the 10th of Muharram, will be observed on July 6.

Statistics:

  • 10 days of Muharram are observed with increased security measures due to a spike in religious activity.
  • 5 provinces and 3 federal territories (Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Islamabad) have been covered under the deployment.
  • 20 organizations, including military and civil armed forces, will be involved in the deployment.
  • 680 AD marks the Battle of Karbala, commemorated by Shia Muslims during Muharram.

Sources:

  • Dawn: "Interior Ministry Approves Nationwide Deployment of Pakistan Army, Civil Armed Forces for Muharram Security"
  • Ministry of Interior: Notification issued for the deployment of Pakistan Army and civil armed forces for Muharram security duties.