*CM orders strict action be taken against provocative speeches
*11 cities, including Lahore, declared sensitive
Present situation of the country demands extraordinary security measures and there is a need for unity to foil the nefarious designs of anti-Pakistan elements, said Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif while presiding over a high level meeting to review security arrangements for the sacred month of Muharram.
The meeting reviewed in detail security measures adopted in the province for maintenance of peace and law and order.
Addressing the meeting, Shahbaz said that maintenance of law and order in the province is the top priority of the government and all out resources are being utilised for the protection of life and property of citizens. He said that institutions concerned, police and administration should remain fully alert and utilise all their energies for ensuring peace and tranquility. He said that a ban has been imposed on provocative speeches, literature and wall-chalking and stern action will be taken against the violators.
The chief minister said that a monitoring system has been devised with the help of modern equipment and CCTV cameras for the safety of processions and majalis during the month.
The cameras will be installed at the entire route of main procession of Zuljinnah and important points of majalis.
He said that the government has made even better security arrangements this year than the past and maximum resources have been provided for this purpose. He directed that departments concerned and institutions should perform their duties with close coordination.
11 CITIES DECLARED SENSITIVE:
Meanwhile, the government on Monday declared eleven cities of the province as sensitive during the sacred month of Muharram and beefed up security in the cities to avoid any untoward incident.
According to reports, the cities, that have been declared sensitive, include Lahore, Rawalpindi, Bhakar, Chakwal, Multan, Faisalabad, Jhang, Gujrat, Bahawalpur, DG Khan and Sahiwal.
The government also said that the army would remain on standby for Muharram 9 and 10 to maintain peace.
City Police Officer (CPO) Humyion Bashir Tarrar said that FC, Rangers and other paramilitary forces would assist police, and the army would be called to maintain law and order, if required.
He said that strict implementation of the Muharram Security Plan was to be ensured and the police department to remain on high alert throughout the month.