‘Ramadan to Complete 30 Days; Grand Mufti Announces Decision After Consultations’
Srinagar, Mar 19: Grand Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam announced on Thursday evening that the crescent moon of Shawwal was not sighted anywhere in Jammu and Kashmir, and Eid-ul-Fitr will be observed on Saturday, March 21, bringing clarity to thousands of devotees across the Valley awaiting confirmation .
The announcement came following Maghrib prayers after the official moon-sighting committee, which includes prominent religious figures such as Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, reviewed inputs gathered from various districts across the Union Territory . Speaking to the news agency, the Grand Mufti confirmed that no credible or authenticated reports of moon sighting were received from any part of the region .
“With the crescent not sighted this evening, Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on Saturday,” the Grand Mufti said, adding that the holy month of Ramadan will now complete 30 days . He also extended greetings to the people and prayed for peace, harmony and prosperity across the Union Territory .
Authorities said the reports received from various districts were either inconclusive or lacked verification, prompting the committee to defer Eid celebrations by a day in line with established religious guidelines . Sources indicated that widespread cloud cover and inclement weather conditions across the region had significantly hampered visibility, making moon sighting difficult .
The announcement brought clarity for residents, traders, and markets, which typically witness heightened activity ahead of Eid . Muslims across the Valley are now preparing to celebrate the festival on Saturday with religious fervour, with Eid prayers expected to be offered at Eidgahs and mosques across the region .
Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, during which Muslims observe dawn-to-dusk fasting. The festival is celebrated with congregational prayers, charity, and family gatherings
