The Indian government has faced backlash after refusing to allow Sikh pilgrims to travel to Pakistan for the annual commemoration of Guru Arjan Dev Ji’s martyrdom, sparking criticism from religious leaders and advocates of interfaith dialogue.
Despite the ban, Pakistan’s Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) and the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC) held a symbolic reception at the Wagah border on Sunday, reaffirming their commitment to religious harmony and solidarity with the Sikh community.
The main event honoring Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the fifth Sikh Guru, will take place on June 16 at Lahore’s Gurdwara Dera Sahib, with Sikh devotees from around the world, including India, invited to attend. However, due to ongoing tensions and the closure of the India-Pakistan border, Indian pilgrims—originally scheduled to arrive on June 9—were barred from making the journey.
Pakistan Extends Open Invitation to Sikh Pilgrims
Speaking at the Wagah border gathering, ETPB Chairman Dr. Sajid Mahmood Chauhan, Additional Secretary Shrines Saifullah Khokhar, PSGPC President Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, and representatives from Hindu, Christian, and Muslim communities emphasized interfaith unity.
Khokhar highlighted that under a bilateral agreement, up to 1,000 Indian Sikh pilgrims are permitted to visit Pakistan for the martyrdom anniversary. “Unfortunately, India has not only denied its pilgrims permission but also kept the Kartarpur Corridor closed,” he said.
*“Earlier this year, Pakistan issued 7,000 visas for Indian pilgrims during Vaisakhi. Our doors remain open to Sikh devotees 24/7, regardless of political tensions. We hope Indian Sikhs will be allowed to visit for Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s upcoming anniversary,”* Khokhar added.
PSGPC Condemns India’s Decision
PSGPC President Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora strongly criticized India’s move, stating, “Respecting religious freedom is a fundamental duty of every nation. By blocking Sikh pilgrims, India has undermined harmony and hurt Sikh sentiments.”
He praised Pakistan’s efforts in preserving Sikh heritage sites and safeguarding minority rights, contrasting it with India’s restrictions. “Pakistan stands for peace and tolerance. While India keeps the Kartarpur Corridor shut, we keep it open, welcoming Sikh pilgrims anytime,” Arora asserted.
Arora also dismissed Indian media propaganda against Pakistan, reaffirming the country’s dedication to interfaith coexistence.
Global Sikh Community Stands with Pakistan
In a previous statement, Arora expressed gratitude to Sikhs worldwide for their solidarity with Pakistan amid regional tensions. “The Sikh community has shown unwavering support for peace and truth, transcending borders,” he said, referencing Sikh diaspora backing from India, the U.S., Canada, and Europe.
He emphasized that attempts to sow division within the Sikh community had failed, reinforcing their commitment to unity and brotherhood.
The controversy highlights ongoing religious and diplomatic tensions, with Pakistan positioning itself as a protector of minority rights while India faces criticism for restricting Sikh pilgrimages.
