Balochistan Home Minister Meer Zia Ullah Langau announced that internet and cellphone services will be suspended in Quetta on Muharram 7 and 10, from 6 am to midnight. The provincial government has also enforced Section 144 in seven districts to enhance security measures during Muharram, which began on July 8 in Pakistan.
Throughout Muharram, processions and majalis are held nationwide, with religious scholars addressing large gatherings under tight security. Thousands of law enforcers are deployed to ensure safety. During a security review in Quetta, Langau revealed that 8,000 security personnel would be stationed in the city on Ashura, the 10th of Muharram. Additionally, five Quick Response Force platoons of the Pakistan Army will be on standby.
Cellphone services will also be suspended in Jhal Magsi, Jaffarabad, and Usta Muhammad districts on Muharram 9 and 10. Pillion riding is banned, and Section 144 is imposed in seven districts from Muharram 1 to 10. Langau emphasized the government’s responsibility to maintain law and order, stating that security arrangements for Muharram are complete.
The federal government approved the deployment of the Pakistan Army and Civil Armed Forces (CAF) nationwide during Muharram. The interior ministry’s notification mentioned that the details of troop deployment would be finalized with relevant authorities and enforced for an indefinite period. The date for ending this deployment will be decided later after mutual consultation among all stakeholders.
