Punjab Information Minister, Azma Bokhari on Wednesday met organizers of mourning congregations and processions in Faisalabad, reaffirming that the Punjab government had placed the peaceful, secure and well-facilitated observance of Ashura at the top of its priorities.
The meeting reviewed security, civic facilities and coordination arrangements for Majalis and Ashura processions, as organizers expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for ensuring comprehensive government support and timely provision of essential facilities for mourners.
Provincial Minister Bilal Akbar, CM’s Special Assistant Zeeshan Malik, Divisional Commissioner Faisalabad Madam Musarrat Jabeen, Regional Police Officer (RPO),Sohail Sukhera and other senior officers attended the meeting.
The organizers included Jafar Naqvi, Syed Iftikhar Naqvi, Hasnain Shirazi, Muhammad Qasim, Tasadduq Hussain, Abbas Haider, Mumtaz Hussain, Agha Mehdi and Ammar Ali.
Azma Bokhari said that Punjab Police and the district administration remained in continuous contact with organizers to address their concerns and ensure smooth arrangements for Majalis and processions.
She said that the government had deployed a heavy police contingent to protect mourning gatherings and Ashura processions while all relevant departments had been directed to remain fully alert and responsive.
The minister said that the administration was making special arrangements for cold-water stalls for mourners in view of the prevailing weather conditions.
She appreciated the harmony and cooperation among religious scholars of all schools of thought, saying their collective role was vital for preserving peace and religious unity during Muharram.
Azma Bokhari said that it was encouraging that organizers had expressed satisfaction over the government’s measures, adding that the administration would continue close coordination with them until the conclusion of Ashura-related events.