The Punjab government has sought the deployment of Pakistan Army and Rangers personnel to strengthen Muharram security in Punjab ahead of the upcoming religious observances. The request reflects heightened efforts to ensure peace and public safety during one of the country’s most sensitive periods.
According to official correspondence sent by the Punjab Home Department to the Interior Ministry, authorities have requested security assistance from military and paramilitary forces to support law enforcement agencies during Muharram. The move follows recommendations made by the provincial police leadership.
Officials stated that the current security environment requires a comprehensive and effective strategy to prevent any potential threats from terrorists or other disruptive elements. As a result, extensive security planning has been initiated across the province.
The request includes a total of 137 companies, comprising 61 Pakistan Army companies and 76 Rangers companies. These personnel are proposed to be deployed across at least 37 districts as part of the broader Muharram security in Punjab plan.
Major cities and districts including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Multan, Gujranwala, Bahawalpur, Sargodha, Dera Ghazi Khan and several others have been included in the deployment request. Some districts have sought support from both forces, while others have requested either Army or Rangers personnel.
The proposed deployment period covers Muharram 1 to Muharram 12, when religious gatherings and processions are expected to take place throughout the province. Authorities are focusing on safeguarding participants and maintaining law and order during these events.
In addition to requesting security forces, the Punjab Home Department has issued detailed guidelines for local administrations and police departments. The instructions emphasize intelligence sharing, vigilance in urban and remote areas, and proactive coordination among security agencies to ensure successful implementation of Muharram security in Punjab measures.
