Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee Sets Muharram Dates

The Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee has officially announced that the Muharram moon was not sighted in the country. This means that the first day of Muharram will be on July 8 (Monday), and Ashura, which is observed on Muharram 10, will fall on July 17 (Wednesday). The decision was made after a meeting chaired by Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad in Quetta, with zonal committees in Islamabad, Lahore, Peshawar, and Karachi also participating.

Muharram is a significant month in the Islamic calendar, known for historical events and religious observances. It is a time of mourning, particularly for Shia Muslims worldwide, who commemorate the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD during this period.

Given the religious importance of the initial 10 days of Muharram, security measures have been heightened across the country. The Punjab government has enforced Section 144 throughout the province to ensure public tranquillity, sectarian harmony, and law and order during Muharram. This legal provision empowers authorities to restrict certain activities for the well-being of the public.

Moreover, the Punjab government has enlisted the support of 150 Pakistan Army and Rangers companies to maintain law and order during Muharram. Similar security arrangements are being implemented in Karachi, including joint flag marches and snap-checking by Rangers and police. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur has allocated necessary funds for security measures, underscoring the government's dedication to preserving peace and order in the province.

As the Islamic month of Muharram begins, it is essential for all citizens to respect the religious sentiments associated with this period and cooperate with the authorities to ensure a peaceful observance of Muharram. Let us all strive to uphold unity, harmony, and security during this sacred time.