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- President says Diwali an occasion to unite people as Pakistanis.
- Hindu community integral part of national life: President Zardari.
- PM hails Hindu community’s contributions to national development.
President Asif Ali Zardari on Sunday extended warm greetings to the Hindu community on the occasion of Diwali, saying that protecting the rights of religious minorities in Pakistan was a “shared responsibility”.
The five-day festival, also known as the Festival of Lights, began today (Sunday) and is being celebrated globally. The festival celebrates the symbolism of the triumph of good over evil, light over darkness and hope over despair.
In his message on the occasion, President Zardari said that Pakistan’s Hindu community was an integral part of national life, adding that the community’s contributions to education, healthcare, business, public service, social welfare, arts and culture have enriched the country.
“Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah envisioned a country where faith, caste or creed would be no barrier to equal citizenship and equal rights.
“We must honour that vision by ensuring that every citizen can practise their faith freely, live in dignity and enjoy equal protection under the law.”
The president emphasised Diwali was also an occasion to strengthen the bonds that unite the people as Pakistanis.
“By sharing in one another’s celebrations, standing together in times of difficulties and rejecting prejudice and discrimination, we can build a more just and compassionate society,” he said.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his message, said that the Hindu community’s “invaluable contributions” to the social, cultural and economic development of the country were worthy of the highest appreciation.
The diverse cultural and religious traditions within Pakistani society constitute a valuable social asset, he said, adding that the country takes immense pride in its religious and cultural diversity.
“The Constitution of Pakistan guarantees the protection of the religious and civil rights of minorities,” the prime minister said.
The government remains firmly committed to safeguarding the rights, dignity and religious freedoms of all citizens, irrespective of religion, faith, colour or ethnicity, he added.
PM Shehbaz emphasised that a society that embraces diverse cultures and traditions and upholds the principles of peaceful coexistence is one that ensures equal educational and economic opportunities for all its citizens.
“On this special occasion, let us renew our collective commitment to fostering interfaith harmony, strengthening the bonds of fraternity and brotherhood, and working together towards a brighter future founded on peace, tolerance and mutual understanding,” he said.
