March 3 and 4 Declared Public Holidays for Holi
The Government of Sindh has announced a two-day public holiday for the Hindu community. March 3 and March 4 will be observed as official holidays for Holi celebrations.
The decision was confirmed by provincial spokesperson Sukhdev Hemnani. He extended warm Holi greetings to the Hindu community across Sindh. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to religious freedom and minority rights.
Holi is one of the most important Hindu festivals. It marks the arrival of spring and celebrates the triumph of good over evil. Thousands of Hindu families in Sindh participate in vibrant festivities every year.
The spokesperson said the Pakistan Peoples Party-led provincial government remains dedicated to equal citizenship. He emphasized inclusion and interfaith harmony as core principles of governance. He added that minorities are an integral part of Sindh’s social fabric.
Officials said the holiday will allow the Hindu community to celebrate without professional or academic pressure. The announcement has been welcomed by minority leaders and civil society groups.
Security Measures Ordered for Holi Celebrations
The provincial government has directed strict security arrangements. Orders have been issued to the Inspector General of Police. Authorities must ensure foolproof security at temples and communal gathering sites.
Police will increase patrolling near Hindu worship places. Special monitoring teams will be deployed in sensitive areas. The government aims to ensure peaceful celebrations across urban and rural districts.
Sindh has a significant Hindu population, especially in cities like Karachi, Hyderabad and interior districts. Holi events typically include temple rituals, community gatherings and public celebrations.
Security agencies are coordinating with local administrators. Emergency response teams will remain on alert during the two-day holiday. Officials said the safety of citizens remains a top priority.
The government also urged citizens to promote harmony and mutual respect during the festival. Leaders highlighted Sindh’s long tradition of religious coexistence.
Exams Rescheduled to Respect Minority Festivals
Last week, Sindh Universities and Boards Minister Ismail Rahu issued instructions regarding examination schedules. Education boards were told not to hold exams during Holi and Easter.
The directive covers April 2 to April 6. Postponed examinations will resume from April 7. Boards have been ordered to revise their timetables immediately.
The decision followed an application submitted to Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah. The request came from the principal of St Patrick High School Karachi. Authorities responded swiftly to ensure minority students could observe their religious events without academic stress.
Education boards must submit compliance reports to the provincial government. Officials have stressed the importance of respecting minority religious observances.
The Sindh government says such measures reflect its inclusive governance model. Authorities believe equal opportunity and religious freedom strengthen social unity.
By granting public holidays and adjusting exam schedules, the provincial administration aims to reinforce minority rights. Officials say the policy supports interfaith harmony and constitutional protections.
The announcement comes at a time when religious inclusion remains a key governance priority. The Sindh government reiterated that it will continue policies that protect diversity and promote peaceful coexistence.
