Govt undecided on suspending internet during Muharram

The federal government has not taken any decision to suspend internet services during the month of Muharram.

The provincial governments had requested to suspend six social media applications for certain duration during the holy month.

In a statement today, the interior ministry spokesperson said no decision has been made on the provincial governments’ requests and advised against paying heed to rumours.

Moreover, the spokesperson also clarified that no direction has been issued by the Prime Minister’s Office regarding suspending the internet during Muharram.

“Neither any application of any provincial government has been accepted nor rejected,” the interior ministry added.

Meanwhile, in Pakistan, the government has already announced two consecutive public holidays to mark Ashura. These holidays are slated for Muharram 9 and 10.

It is worth mentioning here that, the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will announce the sighting off Muharram crescent after their meeting on July 06.

If the moon is sighted on the evening of July 6, then Muharram 1 will fall on July 7. Consequently, Ashura – and public holidays – will be observed on July 15 and 16, corresponding to Monday and Tuesday

Alternatively, if the new Islamic year commences on July 8, then Ashura will be marked on July 16 and 17. This would result in public holidays on July 16 and 17.