LAHORE - Punjab Minister and Chairman Cabinet Committee for Law and Order Khawaja Salman Rafique on Friday stated that the provincial government had implemented strict and comprehensive measures to ensure peace and security during Muharram-ul-Haram across Punjab. He expressed these views during a visit to the Home Department’s central control room, where he reviewed live monitoring of major processions and religious gatherings (majalis) being held across the province.
Real-Time Surveillance Review
The provincial minister inspected the real-time surveillance system and also interacted with various district control rooms one by one to review reports regarding security arrangements and field operations. Khawaja Salman Rafique also visited the Digital Media Cell of the Home Department, where he was briefed on cyber patrolling mechanisms and the rapid response system being used to counter online threats and misinformation.
Security Arrangements Highlighted
On the occasion, he said that Muharram was being observed with complete devotion, respect, and peace across Punjab under a well-coordinated security plan. He noted that more than 37,000 majalis and over 9,400 processions were being closely monitored throughout the province. He added that all major gatherings and procession routes had been geo-tagged on digital maps and were under continuous surveillance through a network of cameras to ensure effective monitoring.
Ministerial Supervision
The minister said that Punjab cabinet ministers were personally visiting districts to supervise arrangements and ensure implementation of security protocols on the ground. Khawaja Salman Rafique stated that the Cyber Patrol Cell of the Home Department was actively taking action against elements involved in spreading sectarian hatred on social media.
Action Against Misinformation
He said that accounts promoting sectarianism were being blocked and legal action, including arrests, was being carried out against offenders. He further warned that strict action was being taken against individuals attempting to disturb peace through social media, adding that such elements would be dealt with firmly. He directed that all rules and regulations issued by the Home Department must be fully implemented across the province to maintain law and order during Muharram.
Additional Secretary Internal Security Maham Asif Malik, Deputy Secretary Zainab Jahandad, and other officials concerned were also present.
