ISLAMABAD (PEN) : The federal government has approved the deployment of the Pakistan Army and civil armed forces (CAFs) nationwide to enhance security during the first ten days of Muharram, with a simultaneous crackdown on religious hate speech online.
Security Deployment
Under Sections 4 and 5 of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997, troops will be stationed across Pakistan—including Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu & Kashmir, and Islamabad Capital Territory—as per requests from provincial administrations and the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, which confirmed Ashura falling on July 6, 2025 .
A notification from the Interior Ministry emphasized that deployment scope, duration, and drawdown dates will depend on local security assessments and inter-governmental coordination.
Monitoring Hate Speech & Online Content
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who led a high-level security review on Thursday, stressed taking firm action against those “inciting religious hatred on social media” during Muharram ([dawn.com][2]). Federal authorities have tasked PEMRA and PTA with monitoring and curbing inflammatory content, and formation of a specialised team—including NCCIA cyber analysts—to prosecute offenders has been announced.
Possible Internet & Mobile Suspensions
Officials are considering temporary suspension of mobile or internet services in identified high‑risk zones during Ashura, with decisions to be based on real-time security evaluations and provincial consultations .
Provincial Coordination & Ground Measures
Law enforcement agencies across provinces have been briefed, with Islamabad Police preparing layered deployment for 181 processions. Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have also activated Section 144 prohibiting unauthorized gatherings.
Why It Matters
Muharram—especially the first ten days culminating on Ashura—is a period of deep religious significance and often heightened tensions. The government’s dual approach of physical security and online content moderation aims to prevent sectarian strife, maintain public order, and ensure peaceful observance.
