Authorities in Pakistan are set to boost security measures throughout the country in late July as part of preparations for the upcoming Muharram religious holiday. The observance, which begins either on July 18 or 19 depending on the lunar sighting, will see increased vigilance to ensure the safety of the public.
Muharram marks the beginning of the lunar Islamic Hijrah calendar and holds special religious significance for both Sunni and Shi’a Muslims. While Sunnis consider it an auspicious time, Shi’a Muslims place greater importance on the holiday. Ashura, a two-day observance within Muharram, commemorates the death of Imam Hussain, Muhammad’s SAWW grandson, in the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. This event led to the division between Sunni and Shi’a Muslims.
In anticipation of potential security threats, authorities plan to increase security in areas with significant Shi’a populations. Focus areas include imambargahs and the routes of Shi’a religious processions. Public gathering restrictions implemented in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with the exception of Malakand Division, and approximately 110,000 security personnel deployed in Punjab Province. Nationwide, enhanced checks, surveillance, and similar measures will be implemented. Depending on the perceived threat level, additional restrictions, such as telecommunication curbs, may be imposed.
While violence and disruptions could occur in various regions, major cities such as Karachi, Hyderabad, Lahore, Peshawar, Quetta, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi identified as potential flashpoints. Historically, bombings, assassinations, sectarian clashes, and riots have taken place during this period. Given the theological divides and historical tensions between Sunni and Shi’a Muslims, caution is advised.