Balochistan Suspends Internet and Boosts Security for Muharram
The Balochistan government has suspended mobile and internet services in several cities on July 7, 9, and 10 to ensure security during Muharram. The affected cities include Jhal Magsi, Jaffarabad, Quetta, Kachhi, and Usta Muhammad.
Over 18,000 personnel have been deployed in Quetta, and two helicopters will be used for aerial surveillance of processions on these dates. Section 144 has been enforced in seven districts, which includes restrictions like banning pillion riding to maintain law and order.
Recently, clashes erupted in Haripur district of Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province over road barricading during a Muharram procession in Shah Mohammad village. The incident resulted in injuries to fourteen individuals, including two policemen and a journalist. Police used tear gas to disperse the factions.
Heightened security measures are in place across Pakistan, with Punjab designating 502 sensitive areas and deploying army and Rangers personnel under Section 144 for Muharram. This period is significant for Shia Muslims, but it has historically seen sectarian violence exploited by extremist groups.
Previous attacks during Muharram have resulted in casualties, such as the suicide bombing at a Shia mosque in Quetta on January 19, 2007, which resulted in at least 15 deaths, and the bombing in Karachi on December 28, 2009, which claimed 43 lives. Another attack in Rawalpindi on November 21, 2012, resulted in 23 deaths. These incidents highlight the ongoing security threats during this period of religious observance.
Doubts Revealed
Balochistan -: Balochistan is a province in Pakistan. It’s like a big area with many cities and towns.
Muharram -: Muharram is an important month in the Islamic calendar. It is a time when many Muslims remember and mourn the death of Imam Hussain, a significant figure in Islam.
Section 144 -: Section 144 is a law in India and Pakistan that allows the government to stop people from gathering in large groups. This is done to keep everyone safe and prevent trouble.
pillion riding -: Pillion riding means riding on the back seat of a motorcycle or scooter. Sometimes, it is banned to prevent accidents or trouble.
Quetta -: Quetta is the capital city of Balochistan province in Pakistan. It’s a big city where many people live and work.
surveillance -: Surveillance means watching over a place or people to keep them safe. It can be done using cameras, helicopters, or security personnel.
clashes -: Clashes are fights or conflicts between groups of people. They can happen for many reasons and sometimes lead to injuries.
Haripur -: Haripur is a city in Pakistan. It’s another place where people live and sometimes face security issues.
