'Yaum-e-Ashur' the 10th of Muharram, commemorating the supreme sacrifice rendered by Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), the grandson of Holy Prophet (PBUH) and his companions, to uphold truth and righteousness is being observed on Tuesday (today) with reverence and solemnity throughout the country.

Alam and Zuljinaah processions are being taken out across the country in which Ulema and Zakireen are highlighting the spirit of sacrifice and teachings of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and the need for forging unity to meet the present-day challenges. The Government has adopted stringent security arrangements for the day.

Security has been put on high alert as personnel of law enforcing agencies have been deployed along all the routes of the processions and venues of Majalis in various cities. All the routes of processions have been sealed off and strict security measures have been adopted.

It may be noted that the tragedy of Karbla symbolizes resistance to forces of tyranny and upholding the cause of justice in most trying times. The day is observed to pay tribute to Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his 72 companions for the supreme sacrifices rendered by them for the cause of truth, justice and righteousness.

TV and radio channels are presenting special programmes to highlight the significance of the day.

In the provincial metropolis of Lahore, foolproof security arrangements have been adopted for maintaining peace. Imambargahs and places where Majalis are being held are under strict security cover, while control rooms and crisis management centres have been established at different places to monitor the situation.

The administrations of various hospitals have adopted special arrangements for dealing with any emergency during Ashura. Additional staff has been deputed in emergency and surgical wards, while life-saving and other medicines have been made available. Mobile medical units and ambulances are also providing first aid during the Zuljinnah processions.

Police and district administration will remain high alert during Ashura and Muharram-ul-Haraam through out theprovince of Punjab. Besides officials of special branch and police razakars, staff of civil defence and health department will also be on duty.

Senior Advisor Sardar Zulfiqar Ali Khan Khosa presided over a meeting for reviewing the security arrangements on the occasion of Yaum-e-Ashur. The meeting reviewed in detail security arrangements on the occasion of Yaum-e-Ashur. The meeting also discussed law and order situation during Muharram-ul-Haram in 36 cities including Lahore. The meeting also discussed security of Majalis, Zuljinah processions and security plan for the protection of azzadaran.  Sardar Zulfiqar Ali Khan Khosa urged upon the members of the peace committees to perform their due role for creating religious harmony and Ittehad Bainul Muslimeen in their respective areas.

Meanwhile, PML-N President Mian Nawaz Sharif, in his message on the occasion of Yaum-e-Ashur, said that the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) inspires us to be ready to make any sacrifice for upholding the lofty human values. He said that Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) set glorious examples of unity, tolerance, harmony and brotherhood among the Muslims and we should follow his footsteps for salvation in the world herein and hereafter.

PML-Q President Chaudhry Shujaat Hussein in his message called for forging unity to foil designs of anti-state elements.