The federal government has rejected requests from provincial governments to block social media applications during Muharram, sources reported.
The decision ensures that platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, and WhatsApp will remain accessible.
The provinces had requested the closure of six major social media applications from the 6th to the 11th of Muharram as a security measure. However, the federal authorities opted against this shutdown, focusing instead on other security measures.
The federal government emphasized that full-proof security arrangements will be implemented throughout Muharram. This includes heightened security protocols and increased vigilance in areas where processions and assemblies will take place.
The Interior Ministry issued directives to enhance and make security more effective and active. In addition to deploying security personnel, mobile signals will be switched off in specific areas hosting Muharram processions and majalis to prevent any untoward incidents.
By keeping social media applications operational, the government aims to balance public safety with the need for communication and information sharing.
Meanwhile, in Pakistan, the government has already announced two consecutive public holidays to mark Ashura. These holidays are slated for Muharram 9 and 10.
The exact dates of these holidays, however, hinge on the decision of the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee regarding the sighting of the Muharram moon. If the moon is sighted on the evening of July 6, then Muharram 1 will fall on July 7. Consequently, Ashura will be observed on July 15 and 16, corresponding to Monday and Tuesday. In this scenario, the public holidays will also be on July 15 and 16.
Alternatively, if the new Islamic year commences on July 8, then Ashura will be marked on July 16 and 17. This would result in public holidays on July 16 and 17, which are Tuesday and Wednesday, respectively.
