Backlash: Notice Banning Holi In Pakistan Universities Withdrawn

Islamabad: Just two days after directing that students are forbidden to celebrate Holi in Pakistani universities to adhere to ‘sociocultural values,’ the authorities have made a U-turn.

Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission (HEC) on Thursday withdrew the notification it had issued after videos of hundreds of Quaid-i-Azam University students celebrating Holi on the campus went viral.

After HEC’s order triggered widespread criticism, the commission’s Executive Director Dr Shaista Sohail issued a fresh notice on June 22 clarifying its stance with reference to the June 20 order on the subject of ‘On campus celebrations of events and festivals’.

“It is clarified that the HEC is highly respectful of all religions, faiths and beliefs, and the associated festivals and celebrations observed in the country. The message communicated in this regard is in no way intended to hurt the sentiments of any individual or group,” the notice read.

“Considering that the message inferred from the communication has regrettably led to misinterpretations, HEC is pleased to withdraw the same,” the commission concluded.