Media reports said that the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan has banned Holi celebration in Pakistan. The HEC’s decision comes after videos of Hindu students celebrating Holi at the Quaid-i-Azam University in Islamabad went viral on social media.
The Commission said that celebration of Holi is a reason for erosion of Pakistan’s Islamic identity.
The report said that the Commission’s order, which was addressed to all Vice Chancellors rectors and heads of all private and public higher education institution, described that it is sad to witness activities that portray a complete disconnect from the country’s socio-cultural values and that it is an erosion of the country’s Islamic identity.
India quickly condemned Pakistan’s move to ban Holi celebrations. Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Som Prakash, said – “This is unfortunate that such an event has unfolded. It is wrong to curtail the rights of anyone and we condemn it. We will be taking up the issue at an appropriate level”.
Pakistan’s human rights activist, Ashiknaz Khokhar, denounced Pakistan’s move and said that it is a shameful act.
