QUETTA: The Balochistan government has imposed Section 144 in eight districts, including provincial capital Quetta, ahead of Muharram-ul-Haram 2025.
According to a notification issued by the Balochistan Home Department (Judicial Section-II), the restrictions will remain in effect from the 1st to the 10th of Muharram. The affected districts include Naseerabad, Jaffarabad, Sohbatpur, Jhal Magsi, Usta Muhammad, Kachhi, Sibi, and Quetta.
Authorities have banned the display and carrying of all types of weapons, except by law enforcement personnel. The order also prohibits pillion riding on motorcycles, except for elderly citizens and security officials.
The government has also banned the publication, sale, and distribution of hate material, including books, magazines, CDs, and cassettes. Entry of suspicious or unrelated individuals into the mourning processions has been restricted.
The order bars people from standing on rooftops or at windows during processions. Wall chalking and poster placement along procession routes are also prohibited.
Additionally, the government has banned the entry of firebrand clerics and controversial speakers from other cities. Gatherings of five or more people, except for processions and religious gatherings, are not allowed.
Shops, tents, and houses along procession routes cannot be rented out without prior permission. Authorities have also banned begging and the presence of beggars on roads during this period.
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The directive takes effect from the 1st of Muharram and remains valid until the 10th of Muharram, 2025. The Additional Chief Secretary (Home), Balochistan, signed the order. The government has sent copies to all relevant officials, deputy commissioners, police departments, and institutions for strict implementation.
