Over 50,000 Imams Register in Punjab Amid Security Measures

LAHORE: More than 50,000 imams in Punjab have registered themselves as part of the provincial government’s efforts to strengthen peace and security. This was announced during an extraordinary meeting on law and order chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.

During the meeting, the Punjab government decided to request the federal government to take similar action against banned extremist groups in other provinces, following Punjab’s lead. The Chief Minister also ordered continuous combing operations across the province.

Authorities have registered 31 cases against individuals sharing content on social media that threatens national security. Briefing revealed that over 61,000 registration forms were distributed to mosques and imams in Punjab, with more than 50,000 completed. The registration process is now 82 percent complete, a development that CM Maryam Nawaz expressed satisfaction over.

Major federations of madrasas in Punjab have agreed to support the registration initiative, aiming to strengthen cooperation between religious leaders and law enforcement. The Chief Minister emphasized that imams are primarily responsible for leading prayers and should not be pressured for donations.

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CM Maryam Nawaz also announced a strict ban on wall chalking across all cities in Punjab and directed all deputy commissioners to ensure its permanent enforcement. She commended the people of Punjab for rejecting extremism and sectarian activities.

Furthermore, the meeting approved clear SOPs regarding weapons and enhanced surveillance measures, including drone monitoring in districts, especially following security concerns after the Islamabad attack. The Chief Minister also ordered drone surveillance to monitor harassment incidents, reinforcing the province’s commitment to law and order.