Pakistan to Observe 1 Muharram on July 8 After Moon Sighting Fails
As the moon of Muharram cannot be seen in Pakistan, the committee has announced that the 1st of Muharram will be on July 8.Consequently, the first of Muharram will fall on Monday, July 8. The committee’s chairman, Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, made the announcement during a press conference in Quetta, where the meeting was held at the deputy commissioner’s office.
Zonal Committees Unable to Sight the Crescent
In addition to the Central Committee, zonal committees in Islamabad, Lahore, Peshawar, and Karachi also held meetings to sight the crescent moon. Unfortunately, none of these committees received any testimony about the moon’s sighting from any part of the country.
Muharram: A Sacred Month in the Islamic Calendar
Muharram is one of the four sacred months in the Islamic calendar and holds great significance for Muslims worldwide. It is a month of mourning, particularly for Shia Muslims, who commemorate the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. The battle resulted in the martyrdom of Imam Husain, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), along with his family members and companions.
Security Measures in Place for Muharram
With the commencement of Muharram, the authorities have geared up security measures to ensure public tranquility and sectarian harmony. The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province, empowering authorities to issue orders in the public interest. The government has also requisitioned the services of 150 Pakistan Army and Rangers companies to maintain law and order.
Ashura to be Observed on July 17
According to the lunar calendar, Ashura, which falls on the 10th of Muharram, will be observed on July 17. This day marks the martyrdom of Imam Husain and his companions at the Battle of Karbala.
Conclusion
The sighting of the Muharram moon has been a long-awaited event in Pakistan. Although the moon was not sighted today, the Central Ruet-i-Hilal Committee has announced that the first of Muharram will fall on Monday, July 8. As the country prepares to commemorate this sacred month, the authorities have taken necessary measures to ensure public safety and security.