KARACHI: Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee has announced that the moon for the Islamic month of Muharram was not sighted anywhere in the country.
The committee met in Lahore under the chairmanship of Abdul Khabir Azad, with religious scholars and other members in attendance.
Speaking after the meeting, Azad said no credible moon-sighting testimonies were received from any part of the country. As a result, the first day of Muharram will be observed on Wednesday, June 17.
He added that Ashura, observed on the 10th of Muharram, will fall on Friday, June 26.
During his remarks, Azad also praised Pakistan’s leadership, including Field Marshal Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, for their diplomatic efforts, and expressed support for the country's armed forces.
More read, Punjab seeks Army, Rangers deployment for Muharram security
Earlier, Punjab government has requested the deployment of Army and Rangers personnel across the province to ensure comprehensive security arrangements during the Muharram ul Haram.
With the start of the Islamic New Year only days away, provincial authorities have moved to strengthen security measures and maintain law and order during Muharram processions and gatherings.
The Punjab Home Department has formally written to the federal Interior Ministry seeking the deployment of military and paramilitary forces to assist civil law enforcement agencies in ensuring the peaceful observance of Muharram.
According to a spokesperson for the Home Department, the request was submitted on the recommendation of Punjab Police.
The letter seeks a total of 137 companies of security personnel for deployment across 39 districts of the province, including 61 companies of the Pakistan Army and 76 companies of the Rangers.
