THE ineptitude of some elements within the Sindh government was reflected in the fact that an unnecessary controversy was created over observing a public holiday on Holi in the province on Thursday.

Last week, the Sindh government had declared a public holiday in the province to observe the occasion celebrated by members of the Hindu community — indeed a progressive and welcome step.

However, the provincial labour and human resources department on Wednesday said the holiday was ‘only’ for Hindu workers, until the chief secretary stepped in and cleared the air by withdrawing the notification, while the Sindh administration reiterated that the holiday was for everyone. This clearly reflects a lack of coordination within the provincial government.

The back and forth between government departments resulted in plenty of confusion about whether or not schools and workplaces would be open on Thursday. This inattention needs to be investigated to ensure such incidents do not happen again.

Beyond the controversy, the Sindh government should be commended for announcing a public holiday on Holi. While it is true that too many holidays should not be encouraged — and the country already has plenty, along with unannounced shutdowns — when it comes to major occasions of religious minorities, exceptions can be made.

Celebrating Holi, Diwali or Easter on a provincial or national scale sends the right message — that minorities are equal citizens of Pakistan and that the state respects and celebrates their traditions.

Considering the high levels of intolerance and polarisation in society, such inclusive messages are essential, especially when they emanate from official quarters, and when the whole nation observes the occasion along with members of the respective religious communities.

There was reportedly some resistance from certain officials representing private schools, but by and large there appeared to be little opposition to the Sindh government’s announcement of a public holiday.

Recognising the minorities’ culture and traditions and celebrating them on a national scale are important symbolic steps that can help create a more tolerant and inclusive society.

Published in Dawn, March 25th, 2016