Sikh community leaders have appealed to the Indian government to revoke its recent decision preventing pilgrims from travelling to Pakistan for Guru Nanak&rsquo;s birth anniversary. They argued that the ban denies thousands of devotees the chance to pay homage at one of their faith&rsquo;s holiest sites.
The restriction, announced on September 12, was justified by New Delhi on security grounds. However, Sikh representatives and community bodies say it disregards international norms and religious rights.
The controversy reflects the broader strain in India&ndash;Pakistan relations, marked by suspended visas and downgraded diplomatic ties following cross-border military clashes in recent years. Despite these tensions, Pakistan continues to welcome Sikh pilgrims, particularly at Kartarpur Sahib in Narowal district, considered the second-holiest site in Sikhism.
The Kartarpur Corridor, inaugurated in 2019, created a visa-free passage for Indian pilgrims to visit the shrine. Recent flooding temporarily submerged the site, but restoration work was completed swiftly, and the shrine reopened for worship. Officials in Pakistan say facilities for food and accommodation are ready, and they anticipate record attendance this year if India lifts the ban.
Community leaders expressed disappointment, noting that thousands of Sikhs had planned to attend the November celebrations marking 556 years of Guru Nanak&rsquo;s birth. They emphasised that faith-based pilgrimages should not be obstructed by political disputes and urged New Delhi to reconsider its stance.

Leaders appeal to New Delhi to allow Sikh pilgrims to travel to Pakistan’s holy shrines

Sikhs Urge India to Lift Ban on Pakistan Visit

Leaders appeal to New Delhi to allow Sikh pilgrims to travel to Pakistan’s holy shrines

September 17, 2025 | 21:06 IST