Islamabad Staff Reporter
Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, met with Chairman of the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII), Allama Dr. Muhammad Raghib Hussain Naeemi, at his office on Wednesday. The meeting focused on matters of mutual interest, particularly the systems of Zakat (almsgiving) and Salah (prayer).
According to a spokesperson from the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the federal minister sought the CII’s support in enhancing the effectiveness and implementation of the Zakat system. In response, Dr. Naeemi assured full academic and advisory cooperation from the Council.
During the meeting, Chairman CII proposed the formation of a joint working group comprising researchers from both the Ministry of Religious Affairs and the Islamic Ideology Council to develop comprehensive frameworks for Zakat and Salah systems.
Sardar Muhammad Yousaf also highlighted the need to review and strengthen the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee (Moon Sighting Committee). Dr. Naeemi emphasized the importance of legislation by the National Assembly to formalize the committee’s role and recommended expanding its operations to the divisional level for better coordination and effectiveness.
The federal minister appreciated the CII’s contributions and efforts in guiding religious and policy matters. He was also briefed on the agendas discussed in previous council meetings.
The engagement reflects the government’s continued commitment to aligning religious practices with structured and well-coordinated systems through collaboration with key religious institutions.
