Unmanned Eyes Grounded – Government of Punjab Bans Drones During Muharram
In a bold cross to adorn public safety throughout the holy month of Muharram, the Punjab government has put in place a total ban on the use of drones, even for media coverage, at some point in all processions and religious congregations. The move comes in the wake of increased protection concerns and is part of a wider and clearly coordinated regulation enforcement drive.
Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari presented that the ban on drones is intended to counter possible threats and maintain public order. “There will be zero tolerance for any violation,” she said, reiterating that this is an across-the-board ban including media sellers and private onlookers.
Army, Rangers, Police: A United Security Front
To ensure foolproof security, Pakistan Army and Rangers will operate together with Punjab police in the month. Their deployment is in view of more than 38,000 Majalis (religious gatherings) and 9,000 processions that will traverse vicinity from all over the province.
A stunning pressure of 238,000 policemen and 35,000 civic volunteers has been deployed to manage crowd control, impervious march routes, and prevent any form of sabotage or agitation. Special units, along with the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) and Dolphin Squad, will remain on overwatch mode the whole time.
Strict Code of Conduct and Cyber Vigilance
The Punjab government has also promulgated a tough code of behavior to ensure peace throughout Muharram. Majalis and procession organizers need to adhere to timings, routes, and noise levels. Showcasing weapons, inflammatory speeches, and wall chalking of a sectarian kind is strictly prohibited.
In the meantime, a robust cybersecurity cell has been established to monitor digital platforms for the spread of hate speech, incitement to violence, or sectarian propaganda. Bokhari imposed the importance of digital hygiene and cautioned that on line incitement would be dealt with swiftly. “The legislation will no longer distinguish among the actual world and the digital one,” she warned.
Public Cooperation is Key
The authorities are calling the public to report any unusual recreation and to fully cooperate with security officers. Minister Bokhari again highlighted the importance of community vigilance and interfaith harmony. “We are custodians of peace. This is a time of grief and contemplation, and we must protect its sanctity at all costs,” she added.
Local non-religious leaders and civil society organizations have been involved in dialogue with authorities to ensure peaceful observances. Coordination meetings are also in progress with media outlets to make insurance thru approved means possible, in addition to compromising the ban on drones.
A Tech-Free Sky, A Safer Ground
Whereas drones previously have provided interesting aerial images of Muharram processions, the government’s corporate approach shows a zero-risk attitude in the face of modern-day safety issues. In recent years, unmanned aerial vehicles have caused concern around the world because of their abuse to conduct surveillance or attacks an opportunity Punjab officials don’t want to take.
The focus of attention this year is solidly on people before optics, security before spectacle.
Punjab’s security arrangements for Muharram 2025 reflect the gravity of the state’s commitment to public safety and sectarian peace. With sophisticated coordination among safety forces**, online surveillance, and a tech-free air space, the provincial government is leaving nothing to chance.
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