Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, Pakistan
رویتِ ہلال کمیٹی پاکستان | |
| Formation | 1974 |
|---|---|
| Type | Religious advisory committee |
| Headquarters | Pakistan |
Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Pakistan (Urdu: رویتِ ہلال کمیٹی پاکستان) is an official religious advisory committee responsible for the sighting of the moon for Islamic months in Pakistan. The committee plays an important role in announcing the beginning and end of Islamic months, including Ramadan, Shawwal, and Zil Hajj.
History
The Ruet-e-Hilal Committee was established in 1974 by the Government of Pakistan to standardize moon sighting decisions across the country. Before its formation, different regions of Pakistan often had conflicting moon sighting announcements.
The committee operates under the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony of Pakistan. It consists of religious scholars, scientists, meteorological experts, and government officials.
Function and Responsibilities
The main responsibilities of the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee include:
- Observing the new moon for Islamic calendar months
- Collecting testimony of moon sighting witnesses
- Consulting astronomical data
- Announcing official Islamic dates
Structure
The committee is usually headed by a chairman appointed by the Government of Pakistan. Regional sub-committees assist in collecting moon sighting reports from different cities.
Importance
The Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is important for:
- Determining Islamic religious events
- Maintaining nationwide religious unity in date announcements
- Supporting Islamic calendar accuracy
Controversies
The committee has occasionally faced criticism due to:
- Regional disagreements over moon sighting
- Debates between scientific and traditional moon sighting methods
See also
- Islam in Pakistan
- Islamic calendar
References
External links
- Official Ministry of Religious Affairs Pakistan website
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