The federal government has already declared a public holiday on the 12th of Rabi-ul-Awwal across Pakistan. However, a new demand for an additional public holiday on 16th September 2024, the 11th of Rabi-ul-Awwal has surfaced. Governor Sindh, Kamran Tessori, has formally requested Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief Minister Sindh Murad Ali Shah to consider the proposal.
In his letter, Tessori highlighted the significance of Rabi-ul-Awwal for Muslims. He suggested that an extra holiday on the 11th of Rabi-ul-Awwal would provide more time for citizens to engage in Eid Milad-un-Nabi celebrations with greater enthusiasm. His letter also proposed that television and media should respect the religious occasion by avoiding programs such as music and dance, focusing instead on content that reflects the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
The governor also emphasized that showcasing the Prophet’s life through media would greatly benefit the younger generation’s understanding of Islam. Furthermore, he urged PEMRA to issue guidelines to media outlets during this sacred month.
The Government of Pakistan had already confirmed a public holiday on September 17, 2024, corresponding to the 12th Rabi-ul-Awwal, for Eid Milad-un-Nabi. A notification from the Cabinet Division officially announced the national holiday for this occasion.
