Islamabad: Dawood University of Engineering and Technology in Karachi has come under fire after issuing a show-cause notice to students who celebrated the Hindu festival of Holi on campus. Controversy erupted as FIRs were filed against several Hindu students, alleging they chanted anti-state slogans during the celebration.
The issue gained traction when Lal Malhi, a former National Assembly member, criticized this action on social media, questioning whether celebrating Holi is now considered a crime and highlighting the intolerance faced by religious minorities in Pakistan.
According to reports by Hindustan Times, Malhi said, "Has the celebration of Holi now become a crime? Is celebrating Holi at a university considered an act against the state?"
A viral video of the Holi festivities, along with the administration's show-cause notice, has intensified public discourse. Critics argue that accusing students of offensive behavior reflects the increasing marginalization of religious minorities.
The Hindu community, though a small part of Pakistan’s population, has a history of systemic neglect, violence, and social exclusion. Particularly in rural areas, Hindus struggle with poverty and illiteracy, while urban dwellers face job scarcity and discrimination.
Frequent incidents of forced conversions and violence, especially against women and children, spotlight the intolerance permeating society. The inadequate legal protections for minorities and the exploitation of blasphemy laws create further obstacles to justice, making the need for greater tolerance and protection for minorities in Pakistan all the more urgent.
