Punjab Government Seeks Social Media Ban During Muharram to Prevent Sectarian Violence

Key Points:

• The Punjab government has requested the interior ministry to suspend social media apps from Muharram 6 to 11 to prevent the spread of hate material and misinformation.
• The Home Department has also mandated the recording of all speeches by religious speakers (zaakirs) during this period.

Historical Context: Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, holds significant religious importance, particularly for Shia Muslims who commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, during this month. Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, is a day of mourning and remembrance. Historically, this period has seen heightened sectarian tensions, necessitating stringent security measures to maintain peace.

Details: The Punjab government has taken an unprecedented step by requesting the interior ministry to shut down social media platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, and TikTok from Muharram 6 to 11. This measure aims to curb the dissemination of hate material and misinformation, which could incite sectarian violence.

Sources indicate that the decision was influenced by reports of external forces, including cross-border elements, spreading hate content and memes. The Standing Committee of Cabinet on Law and Order (SCCLO) and the Punjab Home Department believe that merely suspending internet services is insufficient, as most hate material is shared via social media apps.

Following a meeting of the SCCLO, the Home Department formally requested the interior ministry to suspend social media platforms during the specified period. The government expects a prompt response to ensure peace during Muharram.

Initially, the government considered shutting down social media on Muharram 9 and 10 but extended the period due to reports of increased hate material and external funding aimed at disrupting law and order. Cabinet Minister Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani confirmed the recommendation to close social media apps, noting that hate content on platforms like Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) escalates during Muharram, leading to sectarian tensions.

In addition to the social media ban, the Punjab government has mandated the digital recording of speeches by zaakirs. These recordings must be submitted to the relevant police stations. This move aims to monitor and control the content of speeches to prevent the incitement of sectarianism.

The Home Department has also issued detailed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Muharram processions, including:

• Surveillance cameras on procession routes for live coverage.
• Ensuring processions follow approved routes with three-layer security.
• Thorough checking of participants.
• Timely commencement and conclusion of processions.
• Continuous security cover until the safe return of religious symbols (zuljinahs and tazias).

Summary:

• Punjab government requests social media ban from Muharram 6 to 11 to prevent hate material spread.
• Decision influenced by reports of external forces spreading hate content.
• Digital recording of speeches by religious speakers mandated.
• Detailed SOPs for Muharram processions issued, including surveillance and security measures.
• Aim is to ensure peace and prevent sectarian violence during Muharram.