The federal government has announced public holidays for Muharram 9 and 10, scheduled for July 16 and 17, 2024, according to a notification from the Cabinet Division.
“[…] 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 Moharram 1446 AH),” a notification issued by the Cabinet Division stated.
This holiday marks the occasion of Ashura (9th & 10th Muharram 1446 AH), observed by Muslims globally with grief and sorrow.
Also read: Ashura 2024 Date in Pakistan – 9, 10 Muharram
As a security measure during Muharram, the government has also approved the deployment of the Pakistan Army and Civil Armed Forces (CAF) across the country.
The Interior Ministry’s notification indicates that the specifics of troop deployment, which will be enforced for an indefinite period, will be determined in collaboration with relevant authorities, including the governments of Gilgit Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Islamabad.
The Moon of 1st Muharram, 1446 AH. pic.twitter.com/wrQM8GXTbj
— Anas (@_anassaeed) July 7, 2024
The date for ending this deployment will be decided after mutual consultation among all stakeholders.
“The date of de-requisitioning of said deployment will be decided subsequently after mutual consultation among all stakeholders.”
Provincial governments, including Punjab, have requested the federal government to suspend social media platforms for one week to curb the spread of hate material online.
However, the federal government has not yet made a decision regarding the suspension of internet services during Muharram.
Any decision on this matter will be made in consultation with the provinces, as stated by the Ministry of Interior earlier today.
