Security concerns prompt Attock administration, religious leaders to scale down Youm-e-Quds rally

In a significant development aimed at ensuring public safety, participants at a consultative meeting in Attock on Thursday collectively agreed to limit the scale of the annual Youm-e-Quds rally in view of the sensitive security situation

ATTOCK, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 12th Mar, 2026) In a significant development aimed at ensuring public safety, participants at a consultative meeting in Attock on Thursday collectively agreed to limit the scale of the annual Youm-e-Quds rally in view of the sensitive security situation. Assistant Commissioner Arif Qureshi said the protection of citizens remains the administration’s foremost priority and stressed that peace and stability can only be maintained when the community actively cooperates with authorities. Therefore, he emphasized that society must stand firmly alongside the administration to confront emerging challenges effectively.

Meanwhile, the assistant commissioner revealed that, in light of the current circumstances, directives have been issued to declare Attock a “Free Afghan District” by March 17. Consequently, authorities have launched action against illegally residing Afghan nationals, including detaining individuals and sealing their businesses where necessary. Officials said the measures are being implemented carefully to ensure compliance with government policies while maintaining law and order.

The remarks were made during a meeting at Model Police Station Attock to review arrangements for Youm-e-Quds. During the session, several officials and religious figures attended, including DSP Syed Azhar Shabbir, SHO City Muhammad Sajjad Haider, and representatives of Fiqa-e-Jafaria. Community leaders such as President of Imam Bargah Hussainia Syed Muhammad Aqeel Naqvi and Provincial President North Punjab of Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal Niaz Bukhari also participated in the discussion.

On this occasion, religious leaders unanimously agreed to cooperate with the administration and decided that the rally—normally taken out after Zuhrain prayers—will be peacefully limited to the road in front of Imam Bargah Hussainia. The administration warmly appreciated the constructive cooperation shown by the organizers, and the meeting concluded with a special prayer offered by Maulana Niaz Bukhari.

APP/rhn/378