The representatives of the Hindu community in Pakistan said they will celebrate the religious festival of Holi with sobriety in solidarity with the victimized Muslim community in India.
The members of the Hindu community asserted that it would be an expression of protest against the persecution and brutalities against Muslims in the recent violent riots in New Delhi, India.
#Pakistan’s #Hindu community on Sunday marched in support of #Muslims affected by riots in Delhi last month and announced they would celebrate this year’s #Holi festival with sobriety as a protest against the violence in #India || #DelhiRiots2020 https://t.co/KgAx4yZepE
— Arab News Pakistan (@arabnewspk) March 8, 2020
The communal clashes in New Delhi last month claimed the lives of 53 people, largely from the Muslim community. The rampage saw the destruction of homes, properties, and mosques of Muslims.
Holi- the festival of colors and spring is commemorated with zeal and vibrant festivities in the Hindu community. But the tragic loss of lives in Delhi riots this year has dampened the festivities of a major religious event.
The Hindu community even organized a separate march on Sunday to protest the persecution of Muslims in India, besides the nationwide Aurat March.
Read more: Delhi riots may descend region into unprecedented violence, warns Hamza Ali Abbasi
Pundit Mukesh Kumar, one of the march organizer’s said that they have called off all the major events.
“Our Muslim brothers were being oppressed and killed, and their property was damaged in Delhi. It has hurt us and prompted us to march today,” said Mukesh Kumar to an international Arab media outlet.
“The festival of Holi, which starts on Monday evening will be celebrated but to fulfill religious obligations only– without all the colors and merry-making,” he added further.
The Hindu community of Pakistan has even called out the United Nations to stop the rising intolerance in India. They want the Hindu community in India to rise against the victimization of Muslims.
Read more: Pakistan is our Home: Hindu community rejects India’s offer for citizenship
“We urge upon the UN and world community to stop Modi and his government from meting out bad treatment to religious minorities. We also urge our Hindu brothers in India to stand up for the rights of Muslims and other religious minorities,” he said.
They censured Prime Minister Narendra Modi for introducing a controversial citizenship law. PPP local leaders also participated in the protests.
Wishing all our Hindu community a very happy and peaceful Holi, the festival of colours.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) March 9, 2020
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Imran Khan wished Hindu community a happy and peaceful Holi.