Requests the services of 137 personnel companies deployed in 39 districts of the province
Pakistani Rangers patrol near the president’s house, as Pakistan prepares to host the United States and Iran for peace talks in Islamabad on April 10. Photo: Reuters
LAHORE:
Punjab has requested deployment of Pakistan Army and Rangers personnel across the province to ensure security during Muharram, according to an official statement issued on Sunday.
A letter from the provincial Interior Department has been sent to the Ministry of Interior seeking the services of security forces to maintain law and order and ensure peaceful observance of Muharram processions and gatherings.
According to the notification, the request was made in view of the current security environment and the need to establish a “deliberate and foolproof security mechanism” during Muharram to counter potential threats posed by terrorists and other miscreants.
The deployment request was submitted on the recommendations of the Provincial Police Officer and Inspector General of Police (IGP) Punjab.
According to a Punjab Home Department spokesperson, the province has requested deployment of 137 Army and Rangers companies in 39 districts. The request includes 61 companies of the Pakistan Army and 76 companies of the Rangers.
The notification contains a detailed district-wise rollout plan for key districts of Punjab. The troops are proposed to be deployed for varying periods from 1st to 10th, 11th or 12th of Muharram, depending on local security requirements.
Major deployments have been proposed in Lahore, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Multan, Gujranwala, Sargodha and other districts, with varying numbers of Army companies and Rangers assigned for security duties during the sensitive days of Muharram.
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Some districts, including Kasur and Murree, did not receive Army or Rangers personnel, while others, such as Lahore, Faisalabad and Pakpattan, were allocated larger contingents due to anticipated security requirements.
The Interior Ministry said law enforcement agencies would carry out their duties to ensure a peaceful environment and effective security measures during religious celebrations.
The spokesperson added that the request was forwarded to the Home Ministry on the recommendation of the Punjab Police to further strengthen security measures during Muharram.
