Pakistan lifts concert ban in schools

THE Christian media has welcomed the Punjab assembly’s decision overturn a ban on musical concerts in schools and colleges across the province just days after it outlawed them.

A resolution adopted last week outlawing “objectionable” music concerts in private and public education institutions was roundly condemned by the media and rights groups, forcing the government to overturn the ban on January 26.

“What’s next … a resolution seeking a ban on wearing jeans in academic institutions?” Sheikh Alauddin, a member of the provincial assembly had said in response to the ban.

Father Morris Jalal, executive director of the Catholic TV channel, praised the decision to drop the ban.

“Music is part of culture and religion; society craves for recreation. Such extra-curricular activities help in the holistic development of young people and discovering their talents,” said the priest, who regularly hosts music competitions.

Similarly Christian workers in the music industry say the about-turn has saved the careers of musicians struggling to survive in difficult times.

Report from ucanews.com