First convoy of displaced Hindus, Sikhs returns to Swat

Islamabad, July 17 (ANI): After spending numerous arduous days in refugee camps, people belonging to Hindu and Sikh communities have started returning to their homes in the Swat Valley.

According to The Daily Times, the first convoy of refugees consisting of several Hindus and Sikhs, left for Swat from Hassanabdal on Thursday.

Addressing a ceremony at the Panja Sahib Gurdwara in Hassanabdal, Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETBP) chairman Syed Asif Hashmi vowed to protect the rights of minorities.

"Today, I am very happy to see the Hindu and Sikh Pakistanis displaced by the operation in the Malakand Division returning to their homes," said Hashmi.

He added that all possible facilities would be provided to Sikh pilgrims in accordance with the President and the Prime Minister's instructions. (ANI)