Punjab Muharram Security Alert 2026: Section 144 Issued Across Province

The Home Department of Punjab, Pakistan has officially issued a notification imposing Section 144 across the province during Muharram 2026 to maintain peace, security, and law and order.

According to the notification, Section 144 will remain in effect from June 17 to June 26, with a set of strict restrictions enforced throughout the province. This decision has been made due to security issues in the holy month of Muharram.

During this period, only government-approved religious processions and gatherings (majalis) will be allowed.

Officials have warned against the public carrying of weapons, arms or flammable substances. Any provocative slogans, gestures or statements that might provoke sectarian, ethnic or religious views will also be prohibited.

The notification also specifies that no makeshift defensive structure and barricades will be allowed to be erected on rooftops of houses or buildings situated on the routes of the processions. Moreover, the storage of stones, bricks, bottles, or any waste material on rooftops is not allowed.

Public presence on rooftops, balconies, or shop platforms along procession routes as spectators will not be allowed.

The government has also banned pillion riding (that is, riding pillion with the driver) except for women, older citizens and law enforcement. The restriction will be duly adhered to on 9th and 10th Muharram and other restrictions related to security will also be enforced from 1st to 10th Muharram.

The measures will be taken to ensure peaceful observation of Muharram and to prevent any untoward situation in the province, officials said.