Section 144 Imposed in Punjab During Muharram 2026

The Punjab Home Department has formally imposed Section 144 across the entire province for the duration of the first ten days of Muharram-ul-Haram, spanning June 17 to June 26, 2026. An official notification issued on Wednesday outlined a comprehensive set of seven restriction categories designed to preserve public order and prevent sectarian incidents during one of the most sensitive periods in the Islamic calendar.

Seven Categories of Restrictions in Force

Under the order, no new religious processions or public gatherings will be permitted unless explicitly authorised by the relevant authorities. The display of weapons or explosive materials in public spaces has been banned without prior written approval from a competent authority.

The notification further bans provocative slogans, gestures, statements and any commentary that could inflame sectarian, religious or ethnic tensions. Authorities have also prohibited the construction of bunkers on rooftops of buildings situated along procession routes, as well as the accumulation of stones, bricks, bottles or any other projectile objects on those rooftops.

Members of the public will not be permitted to watch Muharram processions from rooftops or shopfronts along the routes during the period the order is in effect.

Pillion Riding Banned on 9th and 10th Muharram

A specific ban on pillion riding will apply on the 9th and 10th of Muharram — June 25 and 26 — the most critical days of the observance. However, the restriction carries exemptions for senior citizens, women and law enforcement personnel, who will be permitted to travel as pillion riders without penalty.

All other restrictions outlined in the notification will remain operational from the 1st through to the 10th of Muharram. The Home Department has directed all concerned authorities to undertake widespread public awareness campaigns to ensure communities are fully informed about the order and its enforcement across Punjab.