QUETTA: The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee of Pakistan announced on Saturday that the crescent moon marking the beginning of Muharram has not been sighted, and accordingly, the first day of the Islamic month will commence on Monday, July 8. Ashura, the 10th day of Muharram, will subsequently be observed on July 17 across the country.
Chairman of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, presided over the meeting held in Quetta where the decision was made to determine the start of Muharram-ul-Haram 1446 Hijri. Similar meetings were alongside held at zonal and district levels across Pakistan.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) had previously forecasted unfavorable weather conditions for moon sighting due to partly cloudy to cloudy skies over most parts of the country.
According to the PMD, the new moon was expected to be born at 03:57 PST on July 6, complicating visibility for the moon-sighting committees.
Muharram holds significant religious importance in Islam as one of the four sacred months. Ashura specifically commemorates the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), the grandson of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and his companions in the historic battle of Karbala.
During Muharram, Muslims across Pakistan observe solemn rituals including processions and gatherings known as majalis. Religious scholars deliver sermons and lectures to large congregations under stringent security arrangements, with thousands of law enforcement personnel deployed nationwide to ensure public safety.
To maintain security during the month, provincial governments have implemented various measures. The Punjab government has enlisted the assistance of the Pakistan Army and Pakistan Rangers, alongside imposing a ban on pillion riding throughout the province.
Concerns over security and the dissemination of hate material online have prompted provincial authorities to request the temporary suspension of several social media applications during Muharram. However, the federal government has not yet decided on the suspension of internet services during the month, as per a statement from the Ministry of Interior.
