Centre to consult provinces over suspension of mobile, internet services in Muharram

The federal government decided on Thursday to consult provincial governments before suspending mobile and internet services during Muharram-ul-Haram processions as part of security arrangements.

The decision was made during a high-level meeting chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi to review the national security strategy.

The meeting reviewed security arrangements for Muharram in all the provinces, as well as Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), and the Islamabad Capital Territory. It was agreed to take firm action against those inciting sectarian hatred on social media platforms.

Minister Naqvi stressed that all measures about Muharram security would be implemented through a process of mutual consultation. He assured federal government's full support to help ensure law and order during the month.

He reiterated that no one would be allowed to disrupt harmony or engage in activities aimed at destabilisation. The enforcement of the Muharram code of conduct would be strictly monitored, and processions and gatherings would be supervised using modern surveillance tools.

The meeting received briefings from inspectors general of police and home secretaries of the provinces, AJK, GB, and Islamabad. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, the Interior Secretary, and the Acting Chairman of the Capital Development Authority (CDA) were also present.

Among others in attendance were the Commandant of the Frontier Constabulary, the Deputy Commissioner of Islamabad, and senior officers of the Islamabad Police. Senior law enforcement officials, including the Director General of Sindh Rangers and IGs of police and Rangers from the provinces, AJK, and GB, joined the meeting via video link.