A session of the Ittehad-e-Bain-ul-Muslimeen (Interfaith Harmony) Committee convened in Lahore, chaired by Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb, to assess preparations for Muharram-ul-Haram. The meeting included provincial ministers Salman Rafique, Bilal Yasin, Chaudhry Shafay Hussain, Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman, alongside religious scholars, clerics from various sects, peace committee members, and other religious leaders.
Attendees commended the provincial government’s efforts in ensuring security, health services, food distribution (langar), water stalls (sabeel), and sanitation during Muharram. The focus was on maintaining a peaceful and well-organized observance of the holy month.
In a significant development, Maryam Aurangzeb emphasized that Muharram should be marked by messages of tolerance, unity, and brotherhood. She urged religious leaders to foster harmony and avoid divisive rhetoric in their sermons. The minister highlighted the deployment of cyber patrolling teams and rapid response units to combat online provocations, misinformation, and rumors throughout Muharram.
She further revealed that focal persons have been appointed in every district to monitor and act against fake news, with legal measures including FIRs and arrests planned for those spreading religious hatred or false information. The minister stressed ongoing collaboration between the government and religious scholars to sustain social cohesion during the month.
On the security front, Aurangzeb noted that the provincial government is enhancing Muharram security arrangements beyond previous years by introducing technology-driven monitoring systems for improved safety and crowd control. Control rooms are being set up within the Information and Home Departments to oversee real-time developments and enable swift responses to any incidents.
Administrative officials have been instructed to maintain high alertness and ensure uninterrupted public services across all districts. The minister also warned that the circulation of fake videos or content inciting sectarian hatred will face strict action. Chief Minister Punjab is personally supervising all arrangements to guarantee smooth coordination and effective implementation.
Participants also acknowledged Pakistan’s wider role in fostering peace and stability globally, recognizing the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir in advancing peace initiatives. The meeting concluded with a collective prayer for national security, stability, and the peaceful observance of Muharram throughout the country.
