Govt announces July 5-6 holidays on account of Ashura

The federal government has announced public holidays on July 5 and 6 (corresponding to Muharram 9 and 10) to mark Ashura, which commemorates the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions in Karbala.

According to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division, "Prime Minister has been pleased to declare 5th and 6th July, 2025 (Saturday and Sunday) as public holidays on the occasion of Ashura (9th & 10th Moharram 1447 AH).”

The announcement was made in continuation of the Cabinet Division’s earlier circular, issued on December 23, 2024, outlining the schedule of public holidays for 2025.

The public holidays will apply to all federal government offices. Provincial governments are expected to issue separate notifications in alignment with the federal announcement.

In anticipation of large gatherings and processions, the government has tightened security measures across the country, particularly around Imambargahs. Surveillance has been enhanced to prevent any untoward incidents.

Read More: PM directs authorities to ensure security during Muharram

Last week, while chairing a meeting of the federal cabinet, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed authorities to ensure strict law and order during Muharram-related processions and majalis.

He instructed the interior minister to coordinate with provincial governments, as well as the administrations in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, to maintain peace and security throughout the holy month.

Mohsin Naqvi stated that a comprehensive security plan had been finalised to check miscreants and ensure high-level surveillance during Muharram.

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Earlier this week, during a visit to an Imambargah, the minister said security forces had been placed on high alert to thwart any "nefarious designs of cowardly enemies."

He further noted that approval had been granted for the deployment of the Pakistan Army in all provinces, including Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, on the request of local administrations.

The army, he added, will remain available to support the civil administration as needed to ensure peace and order during the month.