Sindh government declares 80 shrines 'sensitive' to terror attacks

Karachi, June 22 (ANI): The Sindh Government has declared at least 80 shrines of saints, including 36 in Karachi, as sensitive, following a terror threat in the province.

The shrines which have been declared sensitive, are those under the administration of the Auqaf Department, while there are many more shrines across the province where the possibility of a terror attack cannot be ruled out, the Daily Times reports.

According to sources, the Auqaf Department had provided a list of 80 shrines to the Sindh Home Department, and asked for foolproof security to avoid any untoward incident of terrorism.

"Since the possibility of a terrorist act cannot be ruled out anywhere at any time, therefore, we have asked for more security for the safety of devotees," the paper quoted Provincial Minister for Auqaf Abdul Haseeb, as saying.

Following a threat of a suicide bombing attack, police had sealed the shrine of Hazrat Abdullah Shah Ghazi on Thursday and devotees were not allowed inside the premises.

However, the shrine of Hazrat Abdullah Shah Ghazi will be opened for devotees on Tuesday.

"The security arrangements for the shrine of Hazrat Abdullah Shah Ghazi have been carried out by deputing law enforcers along with private security guards there while a metal detector gate has also been installed at the place. The security measures taken would be reviewed in a meeting today (Monday) and then the tomb would be opened for devotees on Tuesday," Haseeb said.

Moreover, the devotees have condemned the sealing of the shrine, saying that this is not the appropriate way to tackle terror threats.

"If the law enforcers receive information regarding terror attacks in the city, would they shut down the whole of Karachi?" they questioned.

According to sources, mosques and imambargahs are facing grave terror threats, especially during Friday prayers, but no reliable arrangements have been made by the law enforcement agencies. (ANI)