Mon Oct 20 18:17:00 UTC 2025: ## Summary:

On October 20, 2025, Pakistani leaders, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari, extended Deepavali greetings to the Hindu community, reiterating their commitment to protecting minority rights and promoting interfaith harmony. Sharif emphasized Pakistan as a land of peace and tolerance, highlighting government initiatives to ensure equal rights and opportunities for minorities. He also praised the contributions of minorities to the country and condemned acts of hatred and terrorism. Zardari echoed similar sentiments, lauding the Hindu community’s services and emphasizing constitutional guarantees of religious freedom.

News Article:

Pakistani Leaders Extend Deepavali Greetings, Reaffirm Commitment to Minority Rights

Islamabad – October 20, 2025 – Top Pakistani leaders conveyed their best wishes to the Hindu community on the occasion of Deepavali, vowing to uphold the rights and freedoms of all minorities in the nation.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, speaking at a Deepavali ceremony, emphasized Pakistan’s dedication to peace, tolerance, and equal rights for all citizens, regardless of their faith. He lauded the contributions of Pakistan’s minority communities and underscored the government’s efforts to protect their rights, citing initiatives like parliamentary representation, job quotas, and scholarship programs.

“Muslim and non-Muslim Pakistanis continue to move in unison to thwart any nefarious design against the country,” stated Prime Minister Sharif, reaffirming the nation’s united stance against terrorism and hatred.

President Asif Ali Zardari echoed these sentiments in his message, highlighting the Constitution’s guarantee of equal rights and religious freedom for all. He praised the Hindu community’s contributions to education, commerce, and public service.

Minister of State for Religious Affairs, Kesoo Mal Kheal Das, also affirmed Pakistan’s commitment to interfaith harmony and peace on the occasion. The leaders’ messages emphasized the triumph of light over darkness and hope over despair, calling for collective efforts to build a future of peace, compassion, and shared prosperity for all Pakistani citizens.

Read More