Islamabad: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Thursday emphasised the vital role of religious scholars in promoting peace and unity during the sacred month of Muharram, particularly ahead of Ashura, which will be observed on Sunday.
Speaking during a meeting with religious scholars from various schools of thought, Naqvi stated:
“We cannot thank you enough — the leaders and ulema of all sects — for your role during Muharram. Everyone contributes to this cause.”
The meeting was also attended by Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry and Chairman of the Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee, Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad.
According to a post by the Ministry of Interior on X (formerly Twitter), Naqvi acknowledged the joint efforts of law enforcement agencies and ulema, saying both worked in tandem to maintain order. He highlighted how religious scholars remain in constant communication with authorities during Muharram to resolve issues and prevent conflicts.
Naqvi invited Maulana Azad and other ulema to offer congregational Zuhr prayer at Faisal Mosque on August 14 (Independence Day), stating:
“This will send a message of unity to the world — and there’s no better day to show this than the 14th of August.”
Heightened Security Measures Nationwide
Security agencies have taken strict measures in preparation for Ashura. These include:
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Army deployment
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Crackdown on sectarian content and hate speech
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Surveillance of 13 potential hotspots in Islamabad
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Banning entry of 17 firebrand clerics
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Increased intelligence operations
In Punjab, Section 144 has been imposed province-wide till Sunday. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has applied similar measures only in sensitive districts. Karachi has deployed over 20,000 officers and personnel for Ashura.
Addressing the recent terrorist attack in Bajaur, where five including an assistant commissioner were martyred, Naqvi called on religious scholars to play their part in countering terrorism in KP.
“Terrorism will only end when locals stop supporting these elements,” he said.
Role in Iran-Israel Ceasefire
Naqvi also lauded the role of Pakistan’s armed forces and diplomacy in facilitating the Iran-Israel ceasefire, noting that the world recognises Pakistan’s efforts as a responsible Muslim state.
