Carrying weapons banned during three days of Eid ul Azha

On the directives of the Government of Sindh, the provincial home department has issued the code of conduct for the collection of sacrificial animal hides in connection with the Eidul Azha festival to be celebrated in less than three weeks.

A notification issued by Dr Muhammad Usman Chachar, additional chief secretary (home), reads: “In view of the forthcoming Eidul Azha, there is a likelihood of breach of peace if some activities are not stopped.”

It said the provincial government believes that in order to maintain law and order, to prevent individuals and groups from acting in a manner prejudicial to public safety, and for peace and maintenance of public order, it is necessary to take immediate measures to prevent serious law and order problems.

“Now, therefore, the Government of Sindh, in exercise of the powers conferred under Section 144(6) of the CrPC [Criminal Procedure Code], does hereby impose a complete ban on the following activities during the three days of Eidul Azha in the Sindh province.”

The notification states that the collection of hides without the permission of the commissioner or the deputy commissioners concerned will not be allowed, while setting up camps, and using flags and loudspeakers on vehicles and buildings to make announcements for hide collection are also prohibited.

“Collection of hides by force is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated. Ban on carrying weapons will be strictly implemented. (Licensed weapons and all permissions issued by the home department to carry weapons in relaxation of ban under section 144 of the CrPC will remain suspended during this period).”

The notification also said the station house officers of the police stations concerned are authorised to register complaints and take further necessary action against the violators under the relevant provisions of law.