ISLAMABAD: The federal government has announced a two-day public holiday across the country to mark Ashura, according to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved the holidays for the 9th and 10th of Muharram, which will be observed on Thursday, June 25, and Friday, June 26.
According to the notification, the public holidays will apply to all public and private sector offices, including institutions operating on both five-day and six-day work weeks.
Ashura is observed across Pakistan with deep religious reverence to commemorate the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), the grandson of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and his companions at the Battle of Karbala.
As part of the annual observance, federal and provincial governments are expected to implement comprehensive security arrangements, including the deployment of law enforcement and paramilitary personnel to protect mourning processions and religious gatherings.
Authorities may also suspend mobile phone services in sensitive areas as part of security measures during the two-day period.
