PSGPC Condemns Indian Restrictions on Sikh Pilgrims, Resolution Passed in Lahore

PSGPC Condemns Indian Restrictions on Sikh Pilgrims, Passes Resolution in Lahore

Lahore Nazrana Times Ali Imran Chattha   

The 9th meeting of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC), chaired by President Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora at the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) head office, unanimously passed a resolution condemning India’s denial of permission to Sikh pilgrims wishing to visit Pakistan for religious rituals.

Arora termed the restrictions a violation of religious freedom and fundamental human rights, noting that while Pakistan welcomes pilgrims to Nankana Sahib, Kartarpur, and Panja Sahib, India continues to deprive its own Sikh community of this right.

Speaking to the media, he also congratulated the nation on the Pakistan–Saudi Arabia defense agreement and highlighted Pakistan’s introduction of an online visa facility for global Sikh pilgrims, contrasting it with India’s restrictive stance.

ETPB Chairman Dr. Sajid Mahmood Chauhan reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to preserving gurdwaras, citing that even after recent floods, Kartarpur and other shrines were reopened within 24 hours. Additional Secretary Shrines Nasser Mushtaq said PSGPC and ETPB are working to expand facilities and ensure full religious freedom for Sikh pilgrims, many of whom return home chanting “Pakistan Zindabad.”

The committee called on the international community and the United Nations to take notice of India’s actions and safeguard Sikh religious rights.

Participants included PSGPC General Secretary Satwant Kaur, Vice President Sardar Mahesh Singh, Dr. Sardar Mimpal Singh, Sardar Tara Singh, Sardar Gyan Singh, Sardar Satwant Singh, Sardar Hameet Singh, Sardar Sahib Singh, and Sardar Bhagat Singh.