Will social media remain blocked in Punjab during Muharram?

ISLAMABAD: The Punjab government’s request to suspend social media during Muharram has been rejected, ARY News reported, citing sources.

According to sources, the provinces had proposed banning six apps from 6 to 11 Muharram.

According to sources, the federal government responded to the Punjab government’s query by saying that Facebook, TikTok, WhatsApp and other social media apps would not be banned.

The federal government has promised to ensure absolute security during the Muharram festival and the Ministry of the Interior has ordered that security measures be intensified and made more effective.

The Home Ministry has also ordered that mobile signals be blocked in areas where processions and majalis are taking place.

Earlier, the Punjab Home Department had issued Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Majalis during Muharramul Harram.

According to the instructions, the installation of passage gates at sensitive places is mandatory during Muharramul Harram.

The security of the Majalis consists of three levels to avoid any unwanted incidents. The entry and exit routes of the Majalis are determined before the program, while participants are checked with metal detectors.

READ: Punjab releases SOPs for Majalis during Muharram

The parking lot will be built at least 200 meters away from Majlis Square, the SOPs say.

The use of loudspeakers is restricted to the Majalis and it is also recommended to keep strict time.

It is pertinent to mention here that a meeting of the Central Committee of Ruet-e-Hilal has been convened on July 6, with Maulana Muhammad Abdul Khabir as chairman, to celebrate the moon of Muharram al-Haram, after which a new Islamic year is announced.

Ashura

Ashura, the commemoration day which falls on the 10th of Muharram every year, is observed with due solemnity to honour Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and other martyrs of Karbala amidst tight security.

The day commemorates the unwavering resilience of the Prophet’s (PBUH) grandson, Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), as well as his family and devoted companions, who all fought to uphold Islam despite opposition and cruelty.

In this context, mourning processions are held in all cities and municipalities of the country.