Pakistan: Heightened security certain nationwide for Youm-e-Ali observance April 12

Event

Authorities are boosting security throughout Pakistan for the Shi'a Youm-e-Ali observance April 12. Shi'a Muslims typically hold traditional large street processions to observe the martyrdom of Hazrat Ali ibn Abu Talib, whom the community considers the first imam and the progenitor of the rightful successors to the Prophet Muhammad. The marches typically culminate at prominent Shi'a imambargahs in the evening.

Major Shi'a procession routes or culmination points include:

• Hyderabad: Karbala Dadan Shah Imambargah to Qadam Gah Moula Ali Imambargah along through Raheem Shopping Centre and Station roads

• Islamabad: Markazi Imambargah to Melody Market, and back to Markazi Imambargah in Sector G-6

• Karachi: Nishtar Park at M.A. Jinnah Road to Hussainian Iranian Imambargah in Kharadar

• Lahore: Mubarak Haveli to Karbala Gamey Shah via Circular Road

• Multan: Mumtazabad to Shah Shams Shrine

• Peshawar: Qissa Khawani to Kohati Gate

• Quetta: Rehmatullah Chowk on Alamdar Road to Punjabi Imambargah.

• Rawalpindi: Imambargah Col. Maqbool Hussain on College Road to Imambargah Qadeemi in Banni via Fawara Chowk

• Sukkur: Markazi Imambargah to Shikarpur Road, Minara Road, Station Road, Ghanta Ghar Chowk, and back to the Markazi Imambargah in the Baagh Karam Ali Shah area

Increased security is certain along procession routes and major worship sites to prevent sectarian violence. Thousands of security personnel will deploy to monitor main events in cities. Shootings and bombings are possible. Sunni extremists have attacked Shi'a during the observance in the past. In 2017, authorities foiled an attack targeting the procession in Karachi; in 2020, two suicide bombers attacked the Youm-e-Ali procession in Lahore, killing several dozen people. Major sectarian attacks could prompt rioting and retaliatory violence targeting Sunni interests. Authorities are likely to deploy police and paramilitary forces in major cities, especially Karachi, Lahore, and Quetta, though attacks are possible nationwide. Security forces are likely to block or disperse participants, heightening the risk of clashes. Officials may impose curfews and suspend internet, and telecommunication services in areas with significant clashes to prevent or control violence.

Street closures and significant transport disruptions typically occur in main cities and towns, primarily where marches and other demonstrations occur. Local authorities may suspend mobile service in high-risk areas like Quetta as a precaution. The Sindh provincial government has declared a holiday for educational institutions April 12 as a precaution; similar orders may affect other areas. Commercial disruptions such as business closures are also likely in areas along the procession routes.

Advice

Shi'a processions typically follow fixed routes; avoid them if possible. Limit exposure to places of worship, government and political party offices, security installations, as well as large concentrations of security forces throughout the country. Plan accordingly for street closures and severe traffic congestion in downtown areas of major cities. Monitor trusted local media for updates on security restrictions. Heed all security and traffic advisories.