‘Chehlum’ observed peacefully in capital

Islamabad

‘Chelum’ of Imam Hussain (AS) was observed on Wednesday, 19th Safar-ul-Muzaffar in Islamabad with religious fervour in a peaceful atmosphere, despite the fear of violence by the banned militant religious groups.

The month of Muharram stands as a reminder to mankind for the heroic struggle and martyrdom of Imam Hussein (AS), the grandson of the Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (peace be upon him), against the corruption and destruction of human rights by a tyrant ruler.

Small processions started to gather in Markazi Imambargah in the morning from adjacent areas including Noorpur Shahan, Shahzad Town, Tarlai, Shah Allah Ditta and different areas of Rawalpindi too.

After reaching the mosque, the religious scholars delivered a detailed sermon and paid rich tributes to Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS).

They highlighted the significance of the day and shed light on the sacrifices rendered by Imam Hussain (AS) and his followers to uphold the supremacy of Islam.

Later, a main procession was taken out from the Markazi Imambargah and mosque that passed through its traditional routes, Luqman Hakeem Road, Lal Quarters, 7th Avenue, Municipal Road, Melody and finally terminated at the Markzi Imambargah.

Thousands of people distributed ‘niaz’ (food, milk, soft drinks and water) to the participants of the mourning procession.

It is pertinent to note here that people belonging to other schools of thought also participated in the mourning processions to express complete solidarity.

Stringent security measures were adopted in and around the Imambargah Markazia, G-6/2, as well as on the set route of the mourning procession.

Over 2,000 armed personnel of law enforcing agencies and four wings of Rangers and paramilitary took part in keeping peace on ‘chehlum’ procession.

All the roads and streets openings to Markazi Imambargahs were closed and even pedestrians were not allowed to sneak into the imambargah through adjacent entries. The route of the mourning procession was completely fenced and horse-riding commandos were kept roaming in and outside the fence to keep an eye on the suspicious elements.

Over 250 traffic personnel were deployed to keep the traffic smooth around Imambargahs and on procession routs, SSP (Traffic) Dr. Moeen Masood told ‘The News’ when asked.

No untoward incident was reported during the ‘majlis’ and mourning procession.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Bini Ameen, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Amer Ali Ahmad and Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Maryam Khan were present on the occasion to observe the law and order situation.

Posted in: Islamabad