ISLAMABAD : The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee has summoned a meeting in Peshawar on February 18 for the sighting of the Ramazan-ul-Mubarak moon, the Ministry of Religious Affairs announced on Wednesday.
The meeting will be chaired by Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, Chairman of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee. Members from across the country are expected to attend the session, where the final decision regarding the commencement of the holy month will be formally announced.
According to an official notification issued by the ministry, zonal committees will simultaneously convene in Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, and Quetta to collect and verify moon sighting evidence. These regional bodies will remain in close coordination with the central committee in Peshawar. The process will rely on traditional testimonies, including eyewitness accounts and meteorological data.
Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, who was appointed chairman in 2024, has previously emphasized adhering to both Sharia principles and scientific calculations where feasible. His leadership has sought to minimize regional discrepancies in moon sighting that have historically led to different parts of the country beginning Ramazan on different days.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has directed all relevant departments to remain on standby and ensure seamless communication between the central and zonal committees. Authorities have also made arrangements for the public to report sightings through designated helplines and district administration offices.
Ramazan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide with fasting from dawn to sunset. The exact start date depends on the sighting of the crescent moon. This year, astronomical predictions suggest the month may begin either on February 29 or March 1, subject to official confirmation.
The meeting will be held at the Auqaf Hall in Peshawar after Maghrib prayers on February 18.
