Srinagar: The Jammu Kashmir Civil Society Forum (JKCSF) has raised concerns about the local authorities’ handling of Islamic holidays, specifically criticizing the misalignment of official calendars with the lunar-based Islamic dates. The forum voiced particular discontent over the incorrect scheduling of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW), a significant religious observance for Muslims.

According to Kashmir Media Service, JKCSF Chairman Abdul Qayoom Wani expressed dismay over the government’s decision to declare September 17 as a regular working day, which conflicts with the celebration of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi (SAW). Wani pointed out the challenges posed by the lunar calendar, which shifts annually, affecting the dates of Islamic holidays like Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-e-Milad.

The confusion was notably evident during Eid-ul-Fitr 2024, when many employees faced difficulties due to the attendance systems not reflecting the holiday’s actual date. This issue reoccurred with Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi, traditionally observed on the 12th day of the Islamic month of Rabi-ul-Awal, falling on September 17 this year, whereas the official calendar mistakenly listed it as September 16.

Wani highlighted the importance of Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi for the Muslim community, a day marked by special prayers and visits to shrines, including the prominent Hazratbal in Srinagar. The misalignment has not only caused logistical issues but also affected the community’s ability to fully participate in the observance.

The JKCSF has called for an official inquiry into the failure to update the holiday date and has urged the authorities to grant special casual leave for September 17 to allow Muslim employees to engage in religious activities. The forum also stressed the need for systemic changes to ensure the accurate scheduling of religious holidays in the future.