The Sindh government banned pillion riding across the province to ensure peace and order during Muharram. The Sindh Home Department issued a detailed notification before the Islamic New Year, expected in early July.
The notification exempts women, children under 12, senior citizens, differently-abled individuals, journalists, uniformed personnel from law enforcement and private security agencies, and essential service employees.
In addition to the riding ban, the Sindh Government has prohibited the carrying of weapons, display of arms, and unpermitted processions and Majalis under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) until Ashura.
From the 1st to the 10th of Muharram, the authorities are tasked with enforcing several regulations, including:
- Adherence to The Sindh Sound System (Regulation) Act 2015 concerning loudspeakers;
- Preventing speeches that promote hatred and violence through various media;
- Monitoring the presence of individuals on rooftops during Muharram;
- Ensuring processions and gatherings have the necessary permits;
- Restricting assemblies of five or more people, not part of approved Muharram events;
- Supervising the carrying of arms and the use of helicams or drones.
All previous permissions for carrying weapons under Section 144 CrPC are suspended during Muharram. Station House Officers (SHO) can register written complaints under Section 188 PPC against those violating these directives.
