LAHORE: India has barred Sikh pilgrims from travelling to Pakistan to attend the annual martyrdom anniversary of Guru Arjan Dev Ji, drawing criticism from religious leaders and interfaith groups for undermining religious harmony.
Despite the restriction, Pakistan’s Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) and Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC) hosted a symbolic reception at the Wagah border on Sunday to show solidarity with the Sikh community. The main ceremony will be held on June 16 at Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore, with invitations extended to Sikhs from around the world, including India.
Under a bilateral agreement, up to 1,000 Indian Sikh pilgrims were expected to arrive on June 9. However, the Indian government denied travel permission and kept the Kartarpur Corridor closed, citing tensions with Pakistan.
Addressing the reception, ETPB Chairman Dr Sajid Mahmood Chauhan and Additional Secretary Shrines Saifullah Khokhar said Pakistan had already issued 7,000 visas to Indian pilgrims for Vaisakhi and remains open to Sikh visitors year-round. PSGPC President Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora condemned the Indian decision, calling it a violation of religious freedom and a deliberate attempt to block interfaith engagement.
Arora noted that Sikh religious sites in Pakistan receive full government support and care. He accused India of disrespecting Sikh sentiments and using the Kartarpur Corridor as a political tool, while praising Pakistan for consistently promoting peace, minority rights, and religious tolerance.
Sikh community leaders from multiple faiths and regions also attended the event, including Hindu, Muslim, and Christian representatives, all affirming their commitment to interfaith unity. Arora thanked the global Sikh community for supporting Pakistan and resisting divisive propaganda.
