F.P. Report
LAHORE: A symbolic ceremony was held at the Wagah border crossing on Monday to welcome Sikh pilgrims on the occasion of the martyrdom anniversary of Guru Arjun Dev Ji, despite Indian pilgrims being unable to attend due to travel restrictions imposed by the Indian government.
Each year, under a bilateral agreement, Sikh pilgrims from India visit Pakistan on June 9 to observe this significant religious occasion. However, this year, Indian authorities did not grant permission for the pilgrims to travel.
In response, a symbolic welcome event was organised by the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) in collaboration with Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony. The ceremony was attended by Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs and Chairman of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, Chairman ETPB Dr Sajid Mahmood Chauhan, Additional Secretary Shrines Saifullah Khokhar and others.
Red carpets were laid out at the Wagah border crossing as a gesture of hospitality. Pakistani officials reaffirmed their open-door policy for Indian Sikh pilgrims. “Even if they couldn’t come today, they are welcome anytime,” said Additional Secretary Shrines Saifullah Khokhar, expressing hope that Indian Sikh devotees would participate in the upcoming anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
“The Indian government did not allow Sikh pilgrims to visit Pakistan today,” Khokhar noted, while also confirming that the main martyrdom day event will be held on June 16 in Lahore.
Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora emphasised Pakistan’s ongoing commitment to Sikh religious freedoms, stating: “Pakistan is a second home for Sikhs. The Kartarpur Corridor remains open from our side, and there are no visa restrictions on Indian Sikh pilgrims. Wagah border crossing is open for them at all times.”
Officials reiterated that Sikh pilgrims from India are always welcome in Pakistan and urged the Indian government to allow them to freely participate in their religious events.
