The Sindh government’s decision to limit wedding guests to 200 has sparked fears, leaving many in a dilemma and unsure whether to invite or attend functions.
The provincial government in Pakistan, as part of its “austerity” drive amid the Middle East conflict, took a host of measures, including limiting the number of guests at wedding ceremonies or any other party to 200 with “one-dish serving”.
The decision left many feeling helpless and frustrated. “What’s the point of even having a marriage function if we can’t invite our extended family and friends?” asked a groom’s father. It’s not just about the number of guests; it’s about celebrating a once-in-a-lifetime occasion.”
Families who had already sent invitations to their loved ones months in advance are now worried about the financial implications of reducing the number of guests, having already booked venues and caterers.
“It’s not possible to suddenly reduce the guest list without incurring significant losses,” said a man who had already invited 800 guests to his daughter’s marriage in April.
Karachi Marriage Hall Owners Association president Rana Raees questioned the decision’s effectiveness in implementing the measures to conserve fuel and demanded that the government reconsider its decision. Raees argued that the number of guests does not impact energy consumption.
“Guests arrive from homes with lights and gas off, saving energy, and food is cooked in one place, saving gas,” he added. “The decision will hurt the marriage hall industry only, and pressure the public and workforce,” he added.
Sindh Assembly Leader of Opposition Ali Khurshidi said that the provincial government’s decisions were in line with the national policy for fuel consumption.
However, he said the authorities should not be too strict over the compliance with wedding guest restrictions.
He said that given the realities on the ground, it would be difficult for the authorities to enforce complete implementation of the restriction.
The opposition leader said that the provincial government should ensure that the police and district administration officials would not start making money.
A senior official, who did not wish to be named, said that no mechanism for the implementation of wedding guest restriction was so far devised. — The Straits Times/ANN
