President Zardari and PM Shehbaz Extend Warm Diwali Greetings, Reaffirm Commitment to Minority Rights in Pakistan

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have conveyed heartfelt greetings and best wishes to the Hindu community in Pakistan and around the world on the auspicious occasion of Diwali, the Festival of Lights.
In his message, President Zardari said, “As our Hindu citizens and millions around the world celebrate Diwali, this festival reminds us of the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.” He highlighted that the celebration represents universal values such as peace, compassion, and harmony — principles that are shared among all religions and are deeply rooted in the teachings of Islam.
President Zardari emphasized that Pakistan’s Constitution guarantees complete religious freedom and equal rights to all citizens. He recalled Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s vision of a Pakistan where people of every faith would have equal opportunities to live and prosper. “The Hindu community has been an integral part of our social, cultural, and economic fabric since the country’s inception. Their contributions in education, commerce, and public service have enriched our shared national life,” he added.
He urged the nation to take inspiration from the spirit of Diwali and renew its commitment to tolerance, unity, and peaceful coexistence. “As we celebrate Diwali, let us reaffirm our commitment to tolerance, unity, and peaceful coexistence. May this Festival of Lights inspire us all to work for a Pakistan guided by equality, harmony, and the spirit of togetherness envisioned by our founding fathers,” the president said, extending his best wishes for happiness, prosperity, and peace to the Hindu community.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his message, echoed similar sentiments, reaffirming his government’s resolve to protect the rights of all citizens, regardless of their religion. He noted that Diwali symbolizes hope, positivity, and the victory of light over darkness. “As we celebrate Diwali, let us collectively look toward a future filled with positivity and unity. As Pakistanis, we take pride in the diversity of our society, which strengthens our national fabric and enriches our shared culture,” he remarked.
The prime minister also acknowledged the valuable contributions of the Hindu community to Pakistan’s social, political, and economic sectors. He expressed satisfaction that members of minority communities continue to work hand in hand with their fellow citizens for the country’s development. Shehbaz Sharif reiterated his government’s dedication to upholding Quaid-e-Azam’s vision of a Pakistan where every citizen enjoys equal freedom and opportunity. Concluding his message with “Happy Diwali”, he prayed for peace, prosperity, and unity among all faiths in the country.
Meanwhile, Sindh Governor Kamran Khan Tessori also extended greetings on the occasion. He described Diwali as a festival that spreads the message of light, love, peace, and brotherhood. Tessori lauded the Hindu community for its vital role in the progress and prosperity of Sindh and Pakistan, reaffirming the government’s efforts to promote interfaith harmony and protect minority rights.