The federal government has declared a two-day public holiday on July 16 and 17, 2024, in observance of Muharram 9 and 10, marking the occasion of Ashura. The announcement was made through a notification issued by the Cabinet Division, stating, “The Prime Minister is pleased to declare 16th and 17th July, 2024 (Tuesday and Wednesday) as public holidays on the occasion of Ashura (9th & 10th Muharram 1446 AH).”
Ashura is a significant event in the Islamic calendar, observed with grief and sorrow by Muslims worldwide.
To ensure security during Muharram, the government has approved the deployment of the Pakistan Army and Civil Armed Forces (CAF) across the country. The Interior Ministry’s notification outlined that the specifics of troop deployment will be finalized in collaboration with relevant authorities, including the governments of Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Islamabad. “The date of de-requisitioning of said deployment will be decided subsequently after mutual consultation among all stakeholders,” the notification added.
Provincial governments, including Punjab, have requested the suspension of social media platforms for one week to prevent the spread of hate material online during Muharram. However, the federal government has not yet made a decision regarding the suspension of internet services. The Ministry of Interior emphasized that any decision on this matter will be taken after consulting with the provinces.
The government’s proactive measures aim to maintain peace and security during the religious observance, ensuring that the events of Muharram are conducted smoothly and safely.
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