The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee met in Lahore on Friday to observe the crescent for the Islamic month of Jamadi ul Sani, but the body officially announced that the moon had not been sighted anywhere in Pakistan. As a result, Jamadi ul Sani will now begin the day after tomorrow, following the completion of 30 days of Jamadi ul Awwal.
Meeting Held in Lahore
This month’s meeting of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee was chaired by Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad in Lahore, where religious scholars, technical experts, and officials from relevant departments gathered to receive moon sighting reports from across the country. Simultaneous meetings of zonal committees were also held in major cities, including Karachi, where the session took place at the Pakistan Meteorological Department office.
During the meeting, the committee reviewed testimonies and astronomical data before confirming that no credible sighting had been reported. After assessing the information, the chairman addressed the media and stated that the crescent had not been sighted anywhere in Pakistan.
Official Announcement
Speaking to Geo News, Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad explained that multiple teams remained active throughout the evening, but none were able to confirm visibility of the new moon. The announcement came shortly after the conclusion of the nationwide observation process.
With the confirmation, citizens are advised that Jamadi ul Sani will commence the day after tomorrow. The decision aligns with established Islamic principles for lunar determination, ensuring that the new month begins only after verified sighting or the completion of the previous month’s 30 days.
Scientific Forecast and Committee Findings
Earlier in the day, the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) had predicted low chances of moon sighting on November 21. According to the scientific assessment, the age of the new moon was expected to be around 30 hours and 17 minutes by sunset—an age generally considered insufficient for clear visibility under Pakistan’s atmospheric conditions.
Despite this forecast, the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee continued with traditional observation procedures, combining human testimony with scientific data. This integrated approach has long been part of Pakistan’s moon sighting system, allowing both religious and technical perspectives to guide the decision.
Role of Regional and Zonal Committees
As always, zonal committees across the country remained active throughout the sighting window. In Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Peshawar, and Islamabad, representatives monitored the sky and collected regional inputs. Every meeting’s findings were then forwarded to the central body for final review.
This coordinated structure ensures that every part of the country contributes to the process. The use of both modern equipment and traditional sighting techniques reflects the committee’s commitment to accuracy, transparency, and uniformity in lunar announcements.
Public Response and Significance
Announcements made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee are followed closely by millions of Pakistanis, as lunar months determine key Islamic dates. Although Jamadi ul Sani is not associated with major religious events, the start of each month holds cultural and spiritual importance for many families and communities.
The decision also reinforces public confidence in the moon sighting process, especially as the committee continues incorporating scientific input alongside religious guidelines. Over the years, the combination of technology and tradition has helped minimize uncertainty and ensure timely nationwide announcements.
Historical Context of Moon Sighting in Pakistan
Moon sighting in Pakistan has always been guided by the principles set forth in Islamic jurisprudence. Since the early years of the country, the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee has played a central role in coordinating lunar observations. While the system has evolved through the use of telescopes, observatories, and meteorological data, the core method remains grounded in Shariah tradition.
The committee’s decisions also contribute to nationwide unity by ensuring that all regions observe the start of Islamic months on the same day. This uniformity is especially vital during months like Ramadan, Shawwal, and Zil Hajj, when religious activities depend directly on the lunar calendar.
With Jamadi ul Sani now scheduled to begin after tomorrow, the committee will continue its routine of monthly meetings. As astronomical tools and forecasting continue to improve, Pakistan’s moon sighting process becomes more efficient. However, the human element remains essential, and the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee upholds its responsibility to combine observation with scholarly judgment.
The recent announcement once again highlights the importance of a structured and credible approach to lunar determination in the country. As always, the committee encourages citizens to rely on official announcements to avoid confusion.
