Bhong Sharif in Rahim Yar Khan district houses a prominent temple for the local Hindu community. Four months ago the temple was attacked by a mob. The mob attack that was strongly condemned nationwide by human rights activists, politicians and religious leaders. Fear and apprehension stalked the Hindu community following the attack.

After the Supreme Court and the prime minister took notice of the incident, the temple was rebuilt and the community was given assurance of security. Guru Sukh Dev, a member of the Amn Committee in Rahim Yar Khan, has nothing but praise for governmental efforts after the attack and during the Diwali festival. In conversation with The News on Sunday, he said: “Government action was swift. They rebuilt the temple as quickly it could be done. The deputy commissioner has always supported the Hindu community and was involved in Diwali arrangements this year.” Floral garlands and mesmerising scents were in abundance at the Diwali event held at the Ganesh temple. The event was attended by prominent members of the local Hindu community as well as other local leaders.

According to Guru Sukh Dev, there was increased security after the incident and for Diwali. He said this had done wonders for the morale of the Hindu community. They once again feel heard and secure. “There have been significant efforts to promote interfaith harmony. The DC and Read Pakistan held a successful Diwali event where rations were distributed amongst the locals,” he said. The event was attended by the DC and around 150 ration packs were distributed amongst the locals - Hindu and Muslims alike.

The Diwali celebrations at Bhong Sharif, Rahim Yar Khan were a collaborative effort between the Deputy Commissioner’s Amn Committee and local volunteers. “We are thankful to the government and the DC for their support. It has been truly exemplary,” Guru Sukh Dev said. The celebrations were a little subdued at the temple this year due to Covid-19 and dengue fever epidemics. There was a simple pooja service and a cake cutting ceremony. He went on to add that most people went all out at their homes with sparklers and celebrations. Diwali is a time of goodwill and celebration as people give thanks and exchange gifts. As a leading member of the Amn Committee, he said, he had noticed that fear prevailed among the Hindu community after the attack on the temple. However, the government efforts since then had gone a long way towards making them feel secure and at ease. According to Guru Sukh Dev: “The temple has been rebuilt. This year it looked more beautiful than ever on Diwali. The lights and floral arrangements really complimented the new construction.”

The author is a staff member and a politics and international relations graduate from the   University of Hertfordshire