Ashura Observed Across Pakistan amid Tight Security

A total of 4,836 processions and 5,480 Majalis

were held in cities and towns across the country

1,301 locations were declared highly sensitive

Web Desk

Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore: The nation observed Youm-e-Ashura, the 10th of Muharram, on Sunday with deep religious reverence and solemnity, commemorating the supreme sacrifice of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions at Karbala. All processions across Pakistan concluded peacefully under tight security arrangements.

Mourning Processions Conclude Peacefully Nationwide

A total of 4,836 processions and 5,480 Majalis were held in cities and towns across the country. The Ministry of Interior had earlier declared 1,301 locations as highly sensitive in terms of security. Major cities, including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Quetta, Peshawar, and Rawalpindi, witnessed large turnout of mourners.

In Karachi, the main Ashura procession began at Nishtar Park and concluded at Hussainia Iranian Imambargah in Kharadar. In Lahore, the central procession started from Nisar Haveli and ended at Imambargah Karbala Gamay Shah.

Protest Against Israeli Aggression

In Karachi, participants of the central Ashura procession also voiced strong condemnation of the recent Israeli attack on Iran. In a powerful show of solidarity, mourners held aloft posters of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, expressing unity with the Iranian nation. The display reflected deep-rooted resentment over Israeli aggression and underscored the broader political sentiments that often accompany religious observances in the region. Hundreds of people, many dressed in black as a symbol of mourning, raised their fists while holding placards that read slogans of resistance and support. The scene, charged with emotion, was a testament to the interconnectedness of regional struggles and the unwavering spirit of defiance associated with the legacy of Karbala.

Over 50,000 Security Personnel Deployed in Sindh

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, who led the central procession in Karachi, revealed that over 50,000 police personnel were deployed across the province, with 6,000 assigned to Karachi’s main procession alone. He noted that around 1,400 processions took place across Sindh on Ashura day.

The Safe City project, CCTV cameras, walk-through gates, bomb disposal units, and other surveillance systems were actively used to monitor the events. CM Shah thanked the police, rangers, and administration for ensuring peaceful observance of Muharram.

Central Monitoring and Real-Time Updates

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi supervised the central monitoring cell in Islamabad, which coordinated with provincial control rooms in real time. He confirmed a strict crackdown against individuals inciting sectarian hatred on social media.

The breakdown of Ashura activities by region:

• Punjab: 3,025 processions, 2,502 Majalis
• Sindh: 1,039 processions, 1,040 Majalis
• Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: 257 processions, 735 Majalis
• Balochistan: 24 processions, 32 Majalis
• Gilgit-Baltistan: 141 processions, 1,070 Majalis
• Azad Kashmir: 41 processions, 47 Majalis
• Islamabad: 12 processions, 54 Majalis

Mobile phone and internet services were suspended in sensitive areas as a preventive measure, while traffic diversions ensured smooth flow along procession routes.

President, PM Pay Tribute to Imam Hussain (RA)

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid rich tributes to the sacrifices of Imam Hussain (RA), calling Ashura a timeless message of truth, patience, and standing against oppression.

President Zardari urged the nation to draw inspiration from Karbala to promote integrity, justice, and public welfare in national life. PM Shehbaz said, “Ashura teaches us that truth and justice must be upheld, even in the face of the greatest odds.”

Massive Participation Reflects Deep Devotion

From Rohri to Rawalpindi, the widespread participation of people from all walks of life highlighted the deep emotional and spiritual connection to the events of Karbala. The day concluded peacefully across the country, with citizens expressing gratitude to law enforcement and the government for ensuring a safe environment.