Punjab seeks deployment of Army, Rangers for Muharram security

LAHORE: The Punjab Home Department has requested the Ministry of Interior to deploy Pakistan Army and Pakistan Rangers personnel across the province to assist in security arrangements during Muharram-ul-Haram.

According to a spokesperson for the Home Department, the request was made following a recommendation by the Punjab Police to enhance security measures during the religious month.

The provincial government has sought the deployment of a total of 137 companies in 39 districts to help maintain law and order and support civil law enforcement agencies during Muharram processions and religious gatherings.

The request includes 61 companies of the Pakistan Army and 76 companies of Pakistan Rangers Punjab, the spokesperson said.

In a letter addressed to the Ministry of Interior, the Home Department said the prevailing security environment required a comprehensive and foolproof security mechanism for Muharram-ul-Haram 2026 to counter the threat posed by terrorists and other miscreants.

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“I am directed to refer to the subject captioned above and to state that present security environment underlines the requirement of evolving a deliberated and foolproof security mechanism for the upcoming month of Muharram-ul-Haram, 2026 to thwart design of terrorism/miscreants,” the letter stated.

The department requested the federal government to take the necessary steps for the requisition of Army and Rangers personnel in line with the requirements submitted by the Provincial Police Officer and the Inspector General of Punjab Police.

According to the document, district-wise deployment has been proposed for Lahore, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Gujranwala, Rawalpindi, Attock, Sargodha and several other districts across the province.

The spokesperson said the additional deployment would help ensure effective security arrangements and provide support to civil law enforcement agencies during Muharram observances.

Muharram is one of the four sacred months in Islam. Ashura, observed on the 10th of Muharram, commemorates the martyrdom of the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), and his companions in the Battle of Karbala.

Across Pakistan, faithful hold processions and majalis during the month, while authorities implement extensive security measures, with thousands of law enforcement personnel deployed to ensure the safety of participants.