Sindh announces public holidays for Ashura on June 25-26

Updated: 8:29 PM PKT — June 23, 2026

The federal government has announced public holidays for Ashura (9th and 10th Muharram), according to a report on June 22. This follows a similar announcement by the Sindh provincial government.

Updated: 6:58 PM PKT — June 22, 2026

Authorities have finalized extensive security plans across the country to ensure the peaceful observance of Ashura. As part of these measures, the administration in Islamabad has imposed a ban on pillion riding to maintain law and order and safeguard participants in religious processions.

Additional security personnel will be deployed along procession routes, at Imambargahs, and other sensitive locations. Special surveillance and monitoring arrangements are also being put in place. Officials have indicated that mobile phone networks are likely to remain operational, though a final decision has yet to be formally announced.

Updated: 5:54 PM PKT — June 22, 2026

The federal government has declared nationwide public holidays on the 9th and 10th of Muharram. The Prime Minister approved the holidays, which will fall on June 25 and 26, to observe Ashura.

A notification has been issued by the Cabinet Division, confirming that all government and private offices across the country will remain closed on these dates.

Updated: 4:50 PM PKT — June 22, 2026

In a related development, the Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province until June 26 to ensure security during Muharram. According to a notification, the order includes a complete ban on the display of weapons and flammable materials in public. The construction of any fortifications on rooftops along the routes of mourning processions is also prohibited.

Updated: 3:46 PM PKT — June 22, 2026

The Sindh government has confirmed public holidays for the 9th and 10th of Muharram, which fall on Tuesday, June 25, and Wednesday, June 26. The holidays are on account of Ashura, when Muslims commemorate the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain and his companions.

This follows an earlier announcement from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, which stated that the holy month of Muharram-ul-Haram, marking the beginning of the Islamic New Year 1448 AH, commenced on June 14.