LEH, May 27: The Administration of the Union Territory of Ladakh has postponed the public holiday for Eid-ul-Azha from May 27 to May 28 following revised moon sighting announcements related to Bakrid celebrations.
The General Administration Department issued an official notification confirming the change, partially modifying an earlier holiday order released in November 2025. Authorities said the revision was made after religious bodies confirmed that the crescent moon had not been sighted as expected.
The decision aligns Ladakh’s holiday schedule with several other states and institutions across the country that also shifted Bakrid celebrations to May 28. However, some regions including parts of Jammu and Kashmir continued to observe local traditions based on regional moon sightings.
Government offices, educational institutions and courts in Ladakh remained closed on Thursday in observance of the revised holiday declaration. Officials said all departments had been informed in advance to ensure smooth implementation of the updated schedule.
The change also prompted adjustments in transport schedules, school activities and administrative services across the Union Territory. Authorities urged residents to follow official notifications regarding holiday arrangements and public services.
Religious leaders welcomed the decision, saying the revised observance reflects traditional Islamic practices linked to moon sighting confirmation. Markets across Leh and Kargil witnessed increased activity as people prepared for Eid celebrations.
Bakrid, also known as Eid-ul-Azha, is one of the most important Islamic festivals and commemorates the spirit of sacrifice and devotion. Large congregational prayers and community gatherings were organised across the region under security and administrative arrangements.
Officials said special arrangements were made for sanitation, electricity and water supply during the festival period. Police and traffic authorities were also deployed to manage crowds near mosques and marketplaces.
The revised holiday order became one of the most discussed administrative announcements in the region this week as several states and institutions across India adjusted their schedules following moon sighting updates.