The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan has retracted a previous notification regarding the celebration of the Hindu festival of Holi. The HEC clarified that it respects the religious beliefs of all individuals and groups, emphasizing the freedom to celebrate religious festivals. The decision to withdraw the notification was made due to a misunderstanding of its intent. Education Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain expressed dissatisfaction with the HEC’s initial notification and stated that the ministry of education was unaware of it.

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The HEC does not have the authority to issue such notifications, and relevant authorities took the matter seriously, resulting in the withdrawal of the notification. The National Assembly Speaker, Pervaiz Ashraf, highlighted the importance of social media adhering to constitutional principles and ensuring the freedom of all religions in Pakistan. Rana Tanveer Hussain reiterated that Holi should not face objections and emphasized the freedom of worship for all minority communities in Pakistan. He directed the HEC to avoid engaging in such activities in the future.