Mourners hold religious flags as they march in a Muharram 8 procession in Karachi. – AFP/File
Islamabad: The federal government on Thursday announced public holidays on the 9th and 10th of Muharram (July 28 and 29) on account of Ashura.
,[…] It is for general information that the Prime Minister is pleased to declare July 28 to 29, 2023 (Friday and Saturday) as a public holiday on the occasion of Ashura (9th and 10th Muharram 1445 Hijri),” a notification issued by the Cabinet Division said.
The country will celebrate the beginning of the new Islamic year 1445 Hijri i.e. the first date of Muharram this evening (July 20), which means that Yom-e-Ashura will be observed on July 29 (Saturday).
Earlier, Sindh government has banned pillion riding on Muharram 9 and 10 as part of several measures taken under section 144 of CrPC to ensure uninterrupted continuation of activities on the days of Ashura.
In addition, the federal government approved the deployment of armed forces across the country to ensure security during the holy month of Muharram.
Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court declared July 19 as the start of the Islamic year in the Kingdom.
