LAHORE: The Punjab government has formally requested the deployment of Pakistan Army and Rangers personnel across the province to ensure security during the holy month of Muharram, an official statement confirmed on Sunday. The provincial home department has dispatched a letter to the Ministry of Interior seeking the services of security forces to maintain law and order and facilitate the peaceful observance of Muharram processions and gatherings.
Security Concerns and Recommendations
According to the notification, the request was made in light of the prevailing security environment and the necessity to establish a “deliberate and foolproof security mechanism” during Muharram. This measure aims to counter potential threats posed by terrorists and other miscreants. The deployment request was submitted based on the recommendations of the Provincial Police Officer and Inspector General of Police (IGP) Punjab.
A spokesperson for the Punjab Home Department revealed that the province has sought the deployment of 137 companies comprising both Army and Rangers personnel across 39 districts. Specifically, the request includes 61 companies of the Pakistan Army and 76 companies of the Rangers. The notification provides a detailed district-wise deployment plan for key districts throughout Punjab.
Deployment Timeline and Major Districts
Troops are proposed to be deployed for varying periods, ranging from Muharram 1st to the 10th, 11th, or 12th, depending on local security requirements. Major deployments have been proposed for Lahore, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Multan, Gujranwala, Sargodha, and other districts, with varying numbers of Army and Rangers companies assigned for security duties during sensitive Muharram days.
Interestingly, some districts, including Kasur and Murree, have not been allocated any Army or Rangers personnel, while others, such as Lahore, Faisalabad, and Pakpattan, have been assigned larger contingents due to anticipated security requirements.
The home department emphasized that law enforcement agencies would perform their duties to ensure a peaceful environment and effective security arrangements during the religious observances. The spokesperson added that the request was forwarded to the Ministry of Interior on the recommendation of the Punjab Police to further strengthen security measures during Muharram.
