Moon sighting controversy in Pakistan: Parts of KP to celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr tomorrow

A difference in Eid-ul-Fitr observance has surfaced in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as local religious authorities in several districts have announced that Eid will be celebrated on Friday, March 20, contrary to the official declaration for Saturday across Pakistan.

The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, led by Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, had earlier confirmed that the Shawwal moon was not sighted anywhere in the country, and that Eid-ul-Fitr would fall on Saturday, March 21.

However, in Bannu, District Khatib Mufti Abdul Ani Advocate announced Eid on Friday after receiving 16 testimonies, most of them reportedly from religious scholars. Officials stated that the Ruet-e-Hilal District Committee verified the reports before making the decision.

Authorities in Bannu also confirmed that Eid prayers would be offered at 7:00 am at Dr Jan Muhammad Kali Mosque in Aman Chowk, Khyber Bara.

In Karak, the local Ruet-e-Hilal Committee has announced Eid-ul-Fitr tomorrow, Friday, March 20.

The differing announcements highlight the recurring issue of moon sighting disputes in Pakistan, where regional committees and clerics at times diverge from the central authority’s decision.

Despite the central government’s directive for a unified celebration on Saturday, residents in these districts are preparing to mark Eid-ul-Fitr on Friday, reflecting a split in observance once again this year.

Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan and is traditionally celebrated with congregational prayers, family gatherings, and acts of charity across the Muslim world.