Pakistan bans Holi Pakistan has banned Holi celebrations in universities. This comes a day after a video of Hindu religious festival celebrations at the Quaid-e-Azam University (QAU) in Islamabad went viral on social media. According to Geo News, Holi was celebrated earlier this month and a large number of students participated in the event. A Twitter account sharing updates from Quaid-e-Azam University shared a video where students were seen celebrating the event.
The country’s Higher Education Commission issued a notification stressing the ‘role’ of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in transforming youth who “uphold the cultural and moral values of Islam”. “HEC being conscious of its responsibilities as per the mandate laid down in its Ordinance, is formulating policies, guiding principles and priorities for the betterment of the higher education sector based on concepts embedded in our own culture, values and traditions, Thus preserving the ideology of the country,” it said.
The commission said it was “sad” to witness incidents like the celebration of ‘Holi’, which shows “complete disconnection from the country’s socio-cultural values and erosion of the country’s Islamic identity”. “One such instance that has raised concern was the enthusiasm displayed in marking the Hindu festival of Holi. The widely publicized incident has raised concerns and damaged the country’s image. Commission commented.
The notification states that the commission has the ultimate responsibility to reform the higher education sector of the Islamic nation by infusing principles rooted in Pakistan’s culture, values and traditions, ultimately preserving the “ideology of the nation”. “While there is no denying the fact that cultural, ethnic and religious diversity leads to an inclusive and tolerant society, which deeply respects all religions and creeds; Although this needs to be done in a measured manner without exaggerating. Students need to be aware of selfless vested interests who use them for their own ends away from the altruistic critical thinking paradigm.
“In view of the foregoing, it is advised that HEIs may prudently keep themselves away from all such activities which are clearly inconsistent with the country’s identity and social values, while simultaneously ensuring that They vigorously engage their students and faculty in academic activities. To identify, create and promote avenues for intellectual debate and cognitive learning besides extra-curricular activities and reasoned discourse, the commission said.