Srinagar, Dec 9 (KNS) : The All Jammu & Kashmir Shia Association (AJKSA) President, Molvi Imran Reza Ansari, has once again formally written to Union Minister of State, Dr. Jitendra Singh, reiterating the long-pending request for the inclusion of key Shia community holidays in the official Jammu & Kashmir holiday calendar.

Molvi Imran Ansari highlighted that the Shia community constitutes nearly 15% of J&K’s population, yet is currently provided only two official holidays, Navroz (21st March) and Ashura (10th Muharram). He expressed concern that historically observed dates such as 11th Muharram and Chehlum (40th) were removed over time, leaving the community with inadequate representation in the holiday schedule.

In his communication, he requested the inclusion of Eid-e-Ghadeer (18th Dhul Hijjah) and 13th Rajab, both of which carry deep religious and cultural significance for Shia Muslims. He noted that several other states and Union Territories, including Uttar Pradesh, Telangana, and Ladakh already acknowledge these important observances through official holidays.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

“Recognising these dates is essential for ensuring that the cultural and religious sentiments of the Shia community are respected and reflected in the UT’s official calendar,” he added. He further stated that acknowledging these days would contribute positively to the broader framework of inclusivity, mutual respect, and communal harmony in Jammu & Kashmir.

Molvi Imran Ansari also mentioned that this request has been raised multiple times in the past, and the community remains hopeful that Dr. Jitendra Singh will give the matter due consideration and ensure its implementation from next year onward.

The AJKSA President reiterated that such recognition would reaffirm the administration’s commitment to equitable representation of all communities in the Union Territory.(KNS)