IHC petition seeks earlier Eid moon-sighting announcement

A citizen has moved the Islamabad High Court seeking directions for the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee to announce the Shawwal moon-sighting decision earlier than usual ahead of Eid ul Fitr.

The plea is scheduled to be heard by IHC Chief Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar on Wednesday. The petitioner argued that delays in the final announcement affect worshippers attending taraweeh prayers and create sudden pressure in markets and commercial areas.

The petition also asks authorities to take preventive steps to avoid any law-and-order complications during the Eid shopping rush and to regulate market operations where necessary.

The report noted that Suparco has projected low chances of sighting the Shawwal crescent on March 19, with Eid ul Fitr likely on March 21 after a 30-day Ramadan. Geo News said the final decision will still rest with the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.