Hindus hold prayers for peace

KARACHI:

Saturday was not an ordinary day for the residents of Swami Narayan Mandir compound as the Hindu community had arranged special prayers there for peace and harmony in the city as they prepared to cast their votes.

Placing big hopes in the ensuing the local government (LG) system, young girls who live in the mandir's compound woke up early for special prayers.



"The law and order situation of the city is getting worse and LG elections are a new hope towards the betterment of the city," said Sheetal, expressing her concern about the poor sewerage system in the area.

The main building of the mandir was surrounded by flags of various political parties, while vans and other vehicles were outside the mandir to provide pick and drop service to the polling stations.

"We are here to help Hindus in casting their votes," said a Muttahida Qaumi Movement polling agent. Independent candidates and Pakistan Peoples Party polling agents had also set up camps outside the mandir.

The Swami Narayan Mandir compound and its surroundings have more than 650 voters registered. Dressed in a pink and green saree, Kunwar Bai, a resident of the compound, was seen encouraging young girls to take part in the special prayers at Mata Mandir.



It is like a festive occasion for us. Many people who are not even part of our community have come here to cast their votes, said Agwanti, who has been living in the compound for the past 35 years.

The polling agents helped the voters by informing them about where they can cast their vote and gave them details of their book number. The party workers also provided transportation facilities to the female voters and youngsters, from the mandir compound to UC-25 Saifiyan Girls School polling station.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 6^th, 2015.