Government’s Spending on Moon Sighting
Over the past 25 years, the Pakistan government has spent approximately Rs. 2 billion on moon sighting activities, according to research by We Investigate. This budget covers the expenses of meetings, travel, and salaries of officials serving on the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee and regional moon sighting committees. These committees are responsible for determining the sighting of the moon, particularly for Ramadan and Eid celebrations.
Recurring Controversies and Disagreements
Every year, Pakistan closely follows the official moon sighting announcement, which frequently leads to disputes. The core controversy arises due to differing opinions on whether to rely on:
- Traditional methods (naked-eye moon sighting)
- Modern scientific technology (telescopes and astronomical calculations)
This divide sometimes results in different regions celebrating Eid on separate days, causing public confusion and frustration.
READ MORE: Starlink Prepares to Enter Pakistan’s Telecom Market: Licensing and Financial Hurdles Await
The Debate: Tradition vs. Technology
While the government continues to support the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee to maintain a standardized process, critics argue that:
- Investing in modern technology could save millions of rupees
- A technology-driven approach would ensure a unified decision
- The Rs. 2 billion spent could have been allocated to healthcare, education, or disaster relief
On the other hand, many believe that preserving the traditional moon sighting process upholds Pakistan’s cultural and religious values.
Future of Moon Sighting in Pakistan
The government faces the challenge of balancing tradition with modern science. Whether Pakistan will adopt a fully technology-driven approach or continue relying on traditional moon sighting methods remains a topic of national debate.
For now, moon sighting in Pakistan remains a significant event, deeply rooted in the country’s religious and cultural heritage.
