Sikh community leaders in Pakistan have issued a heartfelt plea to the Indian government, urging them to lift a recent ban preventing pilgrims from visiting the sacred shrine of Guru Nanak, the revered founder of their faith. They argue that this restriction goes against fundamental international norms and moral principles.
The appeal originates from Mahesh Singh, Vice-President of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, the official body responsible for overseeing Sikh holy sites in Pakistan.
His comments follow the Indian government’s September 12 decision to deny permission for Sikhs to cross into Pakistan for Guru Nanak’s upcoming birth anniversary, citing security concerns. As of now, the Indian government has not offered further comment.
Despite a ceasefire between India and Pakistan holding since a conflict in May, travel between the two nations remains heavily restricted.
Pilgrims Welcome: Pakistan Officials Reiterate
Despite the ongoing strained relations, Pakistani officials maintain that Sikh and other religious pilgrims from India are still warmly welcomed to visit shrines in Pakistan under existing agreements. Many of Sikhism’s holiest sites became part of Pakistan following the 1947 partition of British India.
Pakistani officials confirm that preparations are underway to facilitate Indian pilgrims at the Kartarpur shrine. This sacred site is nestled in eastern Punjab’s Narowal district, recently affected by floods, and lies approximately 4.5 kilometers from the border.
The Kartarpur shrine holds immense significance, considered the second-holiest site in Sikhism.
The Kartarpur Corridor, which opened in 2019, established a visa-free border crossing for Sikh pilgrims from India, allowing thousands to visit the shrine daily. However, the shrine and surrounding villages were submerged last month due to heavy rains and water released from overflowing Indian dams, impacting over 100,000 people across Narowal.
At one point, the floodwaters inside the shrine reached a depth of 20 feet (6 meters).
Punjab’s Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif swiftly ordered the water to be drained and the site restored. Remarkably, the shrine reopened for worship and visits within a week.
Arrangements Finalized for Pilgrims
Pakistani official Ghulam Mohiuddin confirmed that all necessary arrangements for lodging and food are being finalized for Sikh pilgrims arriving from both India and other countries. He expressed optimism that if New Delhi lifts its ban, this year could see a record number of Indian Sikhs visiting Kartarpur.
Mr. Singh emphasized that thousands of Sikhs from India had eagerly anticipated participating in November’s week-long celebration marking the 556th anniversary of Guru Nanak’s birth. He highlighted that the Pakistani government has reassured the committee that “the doors of Pakistan are open for Indian Sikh pilgrims” and that visas would be processed through Pakistan’s high commission in New Delhi.
Another prominent Sikh leader, Gyani Harpreet Singh, publicly questioned the Indian government’s decision, pointing out that if India and Pakistan can engage in cricket matches, Sikhs should undoubtedly be permitted to visit Pakistan for their religious observances. He earnestly appealed to New Delhi, urging them “not to play with the emotions of Sikhs.”