RAWALPINDI: Reconstruction work on Krishna Temple in the garrison city, the only place of worship for the Hindu community in the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, has yet to be completed despite the passage of the last 10 months, preventing the community from holding mass gatherings on Diwali and Holi.

However, on Saturday, Punjab Minister for Minority Affairs Ramesh Singh Arora paid a detailed visit to Rawalpindi and directed that the temple’s reconstruction be completed as soon as possible. According to the temple management, the total cost of the project is Rs40 million.

The temple was handed over to the Evacuee Trust Property Board on June 12, 2025, and work began in July.

The reconstruction includes halls, rooms, washrooms and other parts of the building. At present, the puja room and veranda are intact, while the rest of the temple is under construction. Members of the Hindu community said that due to the ongoing work, many avoided visiting the temple, particularly on Tuesdays, which is a prayer day.

They said most people have been offering puja (prayers) at home.

The provincial minister reviewed the repair and renovation work in detail and officials briefed him on the ongoing construction.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Arora said that there would be no compromise on the speed and quality of work. “The Constitution of Pakistan protects the rights of minorities. Followers of all religions in the country enjoy religious freedom,” he said.

The minister directed that the repair and renovation work be completed at the earliest.

Later, he visited Haveli Sajjan Singh, where officials briefed him on ongoing development work.

Speaking there, Mr Arora said that, in line with the chief minister’s vision, beautification and preservation of historical religious places were underway. “Sajjan Singh Haveli is a symbol of historical heritage. Protection of religious historical buildings is being ensured,” he said.

The provincial minister also visited the Maharishi Guru Om Balmik Temple, where members of the Hindu community informed him about the need for development work. He directed the authorities to address the issues.

When contacted, Pakistan Hindu Sikh Social Welfare Council President Sardar Heera Lal said the Hindu community thanked the provincial government for the temple’s reconstruction and urged early completion of the project.

Published in Dawn, May 3rd, 2026