The moon of Muharram 1448 Hijri has not been sighted in Pakistan, the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee announced on Monday, confirming that the first day of Muharram will fall on Wednesday, June 17, while Ashura will be observed on June 26.
The announcement was made after the central meeting of the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee held at the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore, chaired by Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad.
According to the committee, no credible moon sighting reports were received from any part of the country.
Countrywide meetings held
Zonal moon sighting meetings were also held in Karachi, Quetta, Peshawar, Islamabad and other cities, while representatives of the Meteorological Department and SUPARCO provided technical assistance.
After reviewing reports, the committee unanimously concluded that the new Islamic month would begin on June 17.
Official notification issued
Following the announcement, the Ministry of Religious Affairs issued an official notification confirming the start of Muharram across the country from Wednesday, June 17.
Addressing the media, Chairman Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad stressed the importance of maintaining peace and unity during Muharram.
He said Islam teaches harmony and respect, urging people to follow the teachings associated with the legacy of Hazrat Hassan and Hazrat Imam Hussain (A.S)
