Eid controversy

The nation observed the joyous occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr with traditional zeal and fervour. This year, however, the day was much different and without the festivities that we usually witness as we are still in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.

Eid prayers and congregations were held under strict SOPs although there were numerous violations and most worshippers refused to wear masks. The pandemic fatigue has made us complacent in not adhering to safety precautions even though over a hundred lives are being lost every year. We were in control of the third wave but suddenly our laxities and super spreader gatherings can lead to an uptick in coronavirus cases.

It was heartening to see that the entire nation observed Eid on the same day. It was the first time in nearly two decades when the whole country was united in celebrating the day. Many Gulf countries including Saudi Arabia and UAE also observed Eid on the same day. However, Eid was not without its fair share of controversy. A late-night declaration by the revamped Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee announcing Eid spread confusion and caught people off guard as they were unprepared. The moon-sighting committee deliberated over four hours and finally announced Eid just before midnight.

The controversy over the moon sighting still continues and remains unresolved. Fawad Chaudhry, who advocated scientific ways to sight the moon, remains sidelined in front of powerful clerics. Upon hearing about the moon sighting, the minister suggested to do away with the arrangements and just follow Saudi Arabia or Afghanistan in celebrating Eid. Even though the government ousted former Ruet-e-Hilal chairman Mufti Muneeb, the controversy over the moon still remains a ticking point every year.

Amid all the controversies and adversity, we must not forget the message that Eid-ul-Fitr gives us. The day is a reward for the faithful who observed fast and remained steadfast in the month of Ramazan. It is a day to seek the blessings of the Al-Mighty. We must show compassion to the less privileged and assist them in times of distress. This is the message of brotherhood and compassion that we must not forget on Eid.