Section 144 imposed in Gilgit for two months ahead of Muharram

GILGIT: The district administration has imposed Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) in Gilgit for two months to ensure peace and security during the holy month of Muharram-ul-Haram.

According to a statement issued by the Gilgit Deputy Commissioner’s office, public events and gatherings, speeches that may hurt the sentiments of different sects and political parties, and gatherings of four or more people, except for weddings, Muharram assemblies, funerals, and congregational prayers, are immediately banned. The use of tape recorders and placards that could offend other sects or political groups is also prohibited.

The order also banned carrying and displaying weapons, using firecrackers, and buying and selling explosives.

Construction activities within the district, inviting scholars from other areas without permission from the district administration, and plastic and fireworks permits have been cancelled until the end of Muharram.

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Sports activities at Konodas Ground and City Park Gilgit will be prohibited on the 9th and 10th of Muharram. Additionally, pillion riding on motorcycles will be banned in the district on these dates.

“Violators of this order will face strict legal action,” the order said.

The deputy commissioner has appealed to the public to report any violations and cooperate with the administration to maintain peace.

Law enforcement officers have been instructed to take stringent measures against those who violate Section 144. The order will remain in effect for two months.

In a separate notification, the deputy commissioner has also banned gatherings of people along the riverbanks and swimming in rivers under Section 144 of the CrPC for the next 60 days.

The notification stated that all relevant Station House Officers will be responsible for ensuring the order’s implementation.

Assistant commissioners and sub-divisional police officers of all three sub-divisions of Gilgit district will oversee the enforcement of the order.