The holy month is observed with religious spirit by all Shiite and even Sunni Muslims in Pakistan to pay homage to great sacrifice of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and His companions.
As Pakistan has been the target of terrorist attacks during the past years Muharram tituals, the government has taken special measures and prepared security plans for this year so that no terrorist element can target religious gatherings and processions.
Shias account for 20 percent of the Muslim population in Pakistan. The country is home to the second largest Shia population after Iran.
Large number of policemen will be deployed for three-layered security at imambargahs and processions during the month of Muharram.
Arrangements would also be monitored through the security cameras that would be installed at the sites of gatherings and procession routes.
The religious scholars of all schools of thought have been advised by the government to develop an atmosphere of brotherhood, peace and tolerance during the holy month.
In preparation for Muharram, the government of southern Sindh province has declared around 3,046 majalis ‘most sensitive’ and ‘sensitive’ in the province.
“Out of 9,269 majalis, 583 have been declared most sensitive, 2,463 sensitive while 6,249 are normal,” said Sindh Inspector-General Allah Dino Khawaja said.
A close coordination plan has been evolved with law enforcement and intelligence agencies, he said, adding that the coordination and intelligence network will be enough to ensure security during Muharram.
Apart from this, paramilitary Rangers and police are continuously conducting targeted operations in the city and its outskirts.