CM directs Police Authorities to boost up security during Muharram

Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that extraordinary security measures are needed in the present situation and the concerned institutions should ensure implementation of the security plan evolved for this purpose. He said that special attention should be paid to the security of Majalis and processions and a four tier cordon should be set up around them. He said that senior officers should personally remain in the field to supervise security arrangements. He said that immediate action should be taken without any discrimination against the elements delivering provocative speeches or distributing such material. He said that a vigilant eye should be kept on miscreants and law enforcement agencies should maintain a close coordination.

He was presiding over a high level meeting to review security arrangements for Yum-e-Ashur, here today. The Chief Minister also addressed meetings in Rawalpindi and Multan division through video link for reviewing security arrangements with regard to Yum-e-Ashur as well as gave necessary instructions.

Shahbaz Sharif said that Pakistan is passing through a critical phase and terrorism and extremism have shaken the foundations of the country. He said that anti-state elements are bent upon undermining the survival of the country. He said that whole nation will have to unite for foiling the nefarious designs of the enemies of the country. He said that security institutions will have to remain alert and perform their responsibilities with commitment and dedication.

The Chief Minister said that the evil designs of the enemies of peace will have to be thwarted and hoped that Yum-e-Ashur will pass peacefully. He directed that ban on misuse of loudspeakers and display of firearms be strictly implemented and stern action be taken against the violators.

Shahbaz Sharif further directed that the Cabinet Committee should keep a close eye on security arrangements in the province. He stressed upon Ulema to play their due role for maintaining brotherhood and religious harmony in the society.

Provincial Minister for Home Col.(R) Shuja Khanzada said that even better security arrangements than the past have been made this year. He said that the Cabinet Committee is holding its meetings regularly and the control room is functioning round-the-clock. He said that District Peace Committees have been empowered and made pro-active.

Inspector General Police and Secretary Home gave a detailed briefing on security arrangements regarding Ashura Muharram-ul-Haram. IG Police told that additional resources have been provided for ensuring law and order in all districts of Punjab while an effective monitoring system has also been evolved.

Provincial Ministers Col.(R) Shuja Khanzada, Bilal Yasin, Raja Ashfaq Sarwar, Member Provincial Assembly Rana Sanauallah Khan, elected representatives, Chief Secretary Punjab, Secretary Home and senior officers of concerned institutions were present on the occasion while concerned Commissioners and RPOs informed about security measures taken in Rawalpindi and Multan divisions. Provincial Ministers, Assembly Members as well as administrative and police officers also attended these meetings.