In a first, the National Assembly of Pakistan has decided to declare Holi, Diwali and Easter holidays in the country. The Dawn reported that the Assembly on Tuesday adopted a resolution to the effect after it was moved by Dr Ramesh Kumar Vankwani of the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz).

State Minister for Religious Affairs Pir Aminul Hasnat Shah informed the House that the Interior Ministry has already given permission grant leave to minorities on their religious festivals. The ministry will issue a notification if the government adheres to the resolution. However, Federal Minister for Laws and Justice Pervaiz Rashid said the proposal should be reconsidered as the country already has more public holidays than most others.