Patna: The Bihar government has issued a series of directives aimed at maintaining law and order and ensuring communal harmony during Muharram, which is tentatively scheduled to be observed on June 26.
The instructions were issued during a high-level review meeting held on June 22 under the leadership of Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit and Director General of Police (DGP) Vinay Kumar. District Magistrates, Senior Superintendents of Police and Superintendents of Police across the state were directed to implement preventive measures and strengthen monitoring mechanisms ahead of the festival.
Officials said the directives were based on security assessments and intelligence inputs gathered from previous years.
Processions to Require Mandatory Licences
The Chief Secretary instructed all district administrations to ensure that no Muharram procession is allowed without a valid licence.
He also directed officials to immediately convene meetings of Peace Committees in sensitive police station areas and subdivisions. Local committee members have been asked to assist authorities in identifying individuals who may attempt to disrupt public order.
As part of the licensing conditions, the use of DJs, communal slogans and provocative or inflammatory songs has been prohibited during processions.
Noise Control Measures Reinforced
The state government has reiterated compliance with existing regulations governing the use of loudspeakers.
Officials have been directed to ensure adherence to prescribed noise limits and restrictions on loudspeaker use during prohibited night-time hours. Violations will attract legal action under applicable provisions.
Police Ordered to Intensify Vigilance
The DGP directed police units to increase patrolling in communally sensitive areas and maintain close surveillance over non-traditional or disputed procession routes.
Police stations have been instructed to identify vulnerable locations and deploy security personnel accordingly to prevent any disruption during the festival.
Round-The-Clock Social Media Monitoring
According to the directives, cyber monitoring teams are maintaining continuous surveillance of social media platforms to detect posts that promote hatred, communal tension or hostility against any religion, caste or community.
The DGP said immediate FIRs would be registered under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita against individuals found sharing inflammatory content online.
Action Against Troublemakers and Illegal Displays
Police have been authorised to take preventive action against individuals suspected of attempting to disturb public peace.
The government has also prohibited the display of controversial tableaux, caricatures or other material that could trigger communal tensions during processions.
Authorities reiterated that the open display of lethal, sharp-edged or illegal weapons is not permitted unless covered by a valid licence. Organisers will also be required to execute security bonds with the sub-divisional administration.
Protection of Religious Sites
The DGP directed law enforcement agencies to ensure the protection of religious places belonging to all communities.
Officials said strict legal action would be taken against anyone found damaging, desecrating or attempting to target religious sites.
Government Appeals for Peaceful Observance
The Bihar government has appealed to citizens to observe Muharram peacefully and in accordance with traditional practices.
Authorities urged people to maintain communal harmony, strengthen mutual brotherhood and refrain from spreading or acting on unverified rumours.
