337 Indian Sikh yatrees arrive for Maharaja Ranjit Singh death anniversary commemorations

• ETPB, PSGPC officials receive second batch of Sikh yatrees enters via Wagah Border amid tight arrangements

• Authorities assure comprehensive arrangements for accommodation, security and medical support

• Main ceremonies scheduled for June 29 at Gurdwara Dera Sahib, Lahore

 LAHORE: The second batch of 337 Indian Sikh pilgrims arrived in Lahore on Sunday via the Wagah border to participate in the death anniversary commemorations of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.

The pilgrims were warmly received by President of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC) and Punjab Minister for Minorities Affairs Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, Chairman Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) Qamaruz Zaman, Additional Secretary Shrines Nasir Mushtaq, Deputy Secretary Shrines Faraz Abbas and other officials.

Speaking on the occasion, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora said the ETPB had made comprehensive arrangements for the pilgrims’ stay, accommodation and boarding. He noted with satisfaction the participation of a large number of young Sikh pilgrims, calling it a reflection of their deep attachment to their religious and cultural heritage.

ETPB Chairman Qamaruz Zaman said Pakistan was taking practical steps to promote religious tourism and interfaith harmony by providing Sikh pilgrims with a safe, peaceful and welcoming environment. He added that the Evacuee Trust Property Board was continuously working for the preservation, upkeep and improvement of religious sites belonging to minority communities.

Additional Secretary Shrines Nasir Mushtaq said special arrangements had been made for security, transport, accommodation, langar, medical assistance, mineral water and other facilities for the visiting pilgrims. He added that Rescue 1122 vehicles and ambulances had also been deployed to ensure emergency support and smooth facilitation.

Representatives of the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee appreciated the arrangements and expressed gratitude to the Government of Pakistan for facilitating the pilgrimage. They said Pakistan was playing a positive and commendable role in promoting religious freedom and interfaith harmony.

The main ceremonies marking the death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh will be held on June 29 at Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore.