The federal government has approved a unified system for Azan (call to prayer) and congregational prayer timings in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, aiming to promote religious harmony and unity across the Muslim community.
The decision was taken during a consultative meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, attended by religious scholars representing all schools of thought, as well as members of the business community.
Consensus Reached Among Scholars and Stakeholders
Participants at the meeting unanimously agreed on the adoption of a common prayer schedule, highlighting the importance of coordination and unity in religious practices within the Twin Cities.
Sardar Muhammad Yousaf said a formal calendar for unified Azan and prayer timings would be issued soon. He added that legislation to extend the system nationwide is already under way through the Ministry of Religious Affairs.
Islamabad to Serve as a Model for Nationwide Implementation
The minister noted that implementing the initiative in Islamabad would serve as a model for the rest of the country. He also said that traders in Islamabad and Rawalpindi have expressed willingness to voluntarily close shops after Azan to facilitate congregational prayers.
Friday Prayers to Be Used as Pilot Phase
The government is considering launching the unified system with Friday prayers as a pilot phase, with plans to gradually expand it to daily prayers and other cities.
According to the minister, the initiative is intended to strengthen religious unity, discipline, and harmony across the Muslim community.
