TIMES REPORT
KOHAT: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Minister for Information & Public Relations Shafi Jan has said authorities were finalising comprehensive security and administrative arrangements for the upcoming Muharram-ul-Haram in Kohat, aiming to ensure peaceful religious observances, uninterrupted public services and inter-sect harmony throughout the holy month.
Speaking at the separate Jirgas with Sunni and Shia community representatives, Jan said a detailed security plan would be implemented to facilitate the safe conduct of Muharram-ul-Haram processions and gatherings. The meetings were attended by the Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Nawaz, District Police Officer Shehbaz Elahi, retired Chief Justice Ibn-e-Ali, representatives of Member of the National Assembly Shehryar Afridi, officials from security agencies, religious scholars, community elders and civil society members.
Jan described the Kohat as a longstanding example of religious tolerance and mutual respect, noting that Sunni and Shia communities had traditionally cooperated in both religious and social affairs. He expressed the confidence that Muharram would be observed this year in the same spirit of unity and understanding.
Participants reviewed arrangements related to security, sanitation, traffic management, electricity, water supply and healthcare services. Officials agreed to ensure cleanliness along procession routes and around mosques and imambargahs, improve street lighting and maintain water availability while a special traffic plan would be enforced to minimise disruptions.
The Minister said the government was committed to providing a secure environment for mourners and was coordinating with the relevant departments to ensure uninterrupted electricity during processions and religious gatherings. Given the prevailing summer heat, authorities were also prioritising the provision of drinking water, medicines, ambulance services and other essential facilities, he added.
Jan directed the police to further strengthen security at sensitive locations, imambargahs and procession routes and to maintain strict vigilance against any attempts to disrupt peace. He warned that provocative speeches or efforts to incite sectarian tensions would not be tolerated and would be dealt with under the law.
Concluding the meetings, Jan praised the cooperation of religious leaders, community elders, the district administration, police and other institutions saying their collective efforts would help preserve peace, unity and religious harmony during the Muharram-ul-Haram.
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