The Punjab government has established a dedicated Digital Media Cell within the Home Department to monitor and curb the spread of sectarian, violent, and hate-related content on social media during Muharram-ul-Haram. During a visit to the newly established facility, Chief Secretary Punjab reviewed the live cyber monitoring system and directed authorities to take immediate legal action against individuals and social media accounts involved in spreading religious hatred or provocative material.
Security Arrangements for Muharram
Secretary Home Dr Ahmad Javed Qazi briefed the Chief Secretary on Muharram security arrangements, stating that security plans had been finalized for 37,868 majalis and 9,412 processions across the province. More than 125,000 police personnel have been deployed, supported by 61 companies of the Pakistan Army and 76 companies of Rangers to maintain law and order during Muharram.
Action Against Objectionable Content
According to the Home Department, over 16,000 objectionable social media accounts have been reported to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) for blocking. Authorities have also imposed movement restrictions on 1,418 provocative speakers and speaking bans on 794 individuals, while 2,505 persons listed on the Fourth Schedule are under close monitoring.
Dr Qazi said the Digital Media Cell is operating round the clock and urged citizens to report sectarian or hateful online content through the Home Department’s WhatsApp helplines to help maintain peace during Muharram.
