By Moin Ullah Shah
KARACHI: Commissioner Karachi Syed Hassan Naqvi has announced that comprehensive security, cleanliness and civic service arrangements will be put in place around churches during Christmas, with deputy commissioners instructed to take priority measures in consultation with the Christian community.
Speaking at his office during a meeting with a delegation from the First United Presbyterian Church of Pakistan, Naqvi said “foolproof” security would be provided at churches across the city. The presser issued from commissioner office clearly missing the mentioning of Quaid-e-Azam Day celebrations on the same day. He directed all DCs to coordinate closely with church administrators and community representatives in their districts to ensure security.
Instructions have already been issued to the police and other security agencies, the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, town administrations, cantonment boards, the Karachi Water and Sewerage Board, the Sindh Solid Waste Management Board, and the traffic police to treat these arrangements as a priority.
Analysts noted that this marks a shift in focus, with Quaid-e-Azam Day celebrations on 25 December reportedly not being officially observed by the Sindh government. According to officials, security measures will now be provided exclusively for Christmas events.
The traffic police, Naqvi added, would take specific steps to maintain vehicle movement around churches and venues hosting Christmas programs. K-Electric has also been directed to avoid load-shedding at churches during the celebrations.
Naqvi instructed the deputy commissioner for Karachi East District to provide all necessary facilities to ensure the smooth conduct of the rally. The delegation included Pastor Suleman Manzoor, chairman of Rafa Mission International, former Christian center leader Anwar Lal Deen, and other representatives.
