LAHORE – In a significant step toward promoting peace and religious harmony during the holy month of Muharram, a delegation of respected Ulemas from various schools of thought met with Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider at the Governor House. The high-level meeting focused on ensuring religious tolerance, maintaining law and order, and strengthening national unity during this spiritually significant and historically sensitive period.
The meeting, held in a cordial atmosphere, underscored the importance of religious leadership in fostering peace and solidarity during Muharram. Both the Governor and the Ulema stressed the need for mutual respect among different sects and called for collaborative efforts to prevent any incidents that could disturb the peace of the province or the country.
Focus on Muharram Security and Peace
Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, holds great religious significance, especially for the Shia community, who commemorate the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and his companions in the Battle of Karbala. The first ten days of the month, in particular, witness large processions, Majalis (religious gatherings), and other religious activities throughout the country.
However, this time of year has often been exploited by sectarian elements to incite unrest, which makes law enforcement and community cooperation critical to maintaining peace. Acknowledging this, Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider emphasized the key role played by Ulemas from all sects in promoting peace and harmony during Muharram. He called upon religious scholars to use their influence to spread messages of brotherhood, mutual respect, and tolerance in their sermons and gatherings.
“The peaceful observance of Muharram is possible only with the cooperation of Ulemas and religious leaders. Their guidance is crucial in promoting a culture of unity and curbing elements that seek to sow discord,” said Governor Haider.
Interfaith and Intra-faith Harmony: A Shared Responsibility
The meeting was not limited to security concerns but also covered interfaith and intra-faith harmony, a growing concern in a culturally diverse and religiously plural society like Pakistan. The Governor highlighted the government’s commitment to protecting the rights of all religious communities and underscored the need for collective efforts to eliminate sectarianism.
He also praised the Ulemas’ efforts in promoting unity and encouraged continued dialogue between different sects to resolve theological differences through peaceful and respectful discourse.
The Ulemas, representing various Sunni and Shia schools of thought, echoed the Governor’s sentiments and expressed their unwavering support in promoting peace and religious tolerance during Muharram and beyond.
Operation Banyan Marsus and National Prestige
During the meeting, the delegation of Ulemas also lauded the recent success of Operation Banyan Marsus, a counter-terrorism initiative that has reportedly played a crucial role in enhancing internal security and projecting Pakistan’s improved image globally. While details of the operation have not been fully disclosed, it is believed to have targeted militant networks that pose threats to religious gatherings and national peace.
The Ulemas stated that the success of such security operations contributes to the peaceful observance of religious events like Muharram and helps reassure the public of the state’s commitment to combating terrorism and extremism.
They commended the government and security forces for their determination and resolve, assuring full cooperation from religious circles to ensure that Pakistan remains a symbol of religious harmony and resilience.
Ulemas Pledge Support for Government Initiatives
The Ulemas attending the meeting assured Governor Saleem Haider of their full cooperation in maintaining peace and order during Muharram. They vowed to work closely with the provincial government, law enforcement agencies, and community organizations to ensure smooth and safe conduct of religious processions and gatherings.
Religious leaders also emphasized the importance of:
- Avoiding hate speech in sermons and public addresses
- Verifying religious content on social media to prevent the spread of misinformation
- Discouraging provocative rhetoric that may incite sectarian sentiments
- Encouraging youth participation in peace-promoting initiatives and inter-sect unity
- Supporting law enforcement by reporting suspicious activity or potential threats
The Governor also assured the Ulemas that the provincial government is committed to providing full security to Majalis and processions, and that all relevant departments have been instructed to remain vigilant and proactive during Muharram.
Government Preparations for Muharram Observance
The Punjab government, in coordination with district administrations, police, intelligence agencies, and emergency services, has begun comprehensive planning for the upcoming month of Muharram. These preparations include:
- Deployment of additional police personnel at sensitive locations
- Installation of CCTV cameras on major procession routes
- Coordination with religious leaders to schedule and supervise gatherings
- Emergency medical teams on standby along procession paths
- Strict monitoring of hate content on print, electronic, and social media platforms
- Route clearance and sanitization by municipal departments
Special focus is being placed on cities with historically higher sensitivities, such as Lahore, Multan, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, and Bahawalpur. The government is also promoting peace committees at the local level that include representation from all religious groups to mediate in case of misunderstandings or disputes.
Religious Unity as a Foundation for National Progress
Governor Haider emphasized that religious unity is not only vital for peace but also essential for Pakistan’s social and economic progress. He urged Ulemas to continue playing their role in eradicating extremism, promoting tolerance, and guiding the youth toward constructive paths.
“We must stand together in confronting all threats to our peace. Religious scholars have a moral responsibility to protect the unity of the Ummah and the integrity of the nation,” the Governor added.
He also highlighted the importance of religious education that promotes compassion, coexistence, and respect for diversity, and commended those Ulemas who have actively worked to counter the narrative of extremism over the past decade.
Conclusion: Strengthening the Spirit of Muharram Through Unity and Responsibility
The meeting between the Ulemas and Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider marks a critical step in ensuring a peaceful and spiritually fulfilling observance of Muharram in 2025. At a time when sectarian tensions can easily be fueled by misinformation and provocations, such dialogues between religious leaders and state authorities play a pivotal role in promoting unity.
With the combined efforts of Ulemas, civil society, and the government, there is optimism that this year’s Muharram will proceed without incident and serve as an example of how religious diversity can coexist peacefully in Pakistan.
The Punjab government, backed by religious scholars and community leaders, remains committed to ensuring that Muharram is marked by reflection, reverence, and resilience, upholding the values of sacrifice and justice symbolized by Imam Hussain’s (RA) martyrdom.
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