Minister Ramesh Singh Arora cites UK visit as reason for absence from Maharaja Ranjit Singh anniversary: ​​'Engaging global Sikh diaspora important'

London, July 1, 2025 — Ali Imran Chatha

Punjab, Pakistan's state minister for minority affairs Ramesh Singh Arora did not attend the annual death anniversary celebrations of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in Lahore, citing an official visit to the United Kingdom. Speaking to Nazarana Times correspondent Ali Imran Chatha from Pakistan, Arora confirmed his participation in the 20th anniversary celebrations of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for British Sikhs held at the British Parliament.

The minister shared in his conversation with Chatha, "It was an important opportunity to connect with the global Sikh diaspora." “I will be meeting with Sikh communities across the UK and particularly encouraging young people to visit Pakistan to explore their cultural and historical roots.”

He added that Maharaja Ranjit Singh was “a brave and just ruler who served his subjects regardless of their religion, and that is why his legacy lives on in history.” The Minister reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to preserving Sikh heritage and promoting interfaith harmony.

Later that evening, the House of Commons hosted a historic event to celebrate 20 years of the APPG for British Sikhs, led by APPG Chairman Jas Athwal MP. Held in Committee Room 14, the event brought together MPs, community advocates, international delegates and British Sikh leaders to honour two decades of dedicated work on Sikh rights, representation and justice.

The event ran from 7pm to 9pm, with guests entering through the Cromwell Green Visitor Entrance, as per the formal invitations.

Although Minister Arora will be addressing the conference, he also met Sikh leaders before the event. In turn, he acknowledged the important role of the APPG and conveyed his congratulations to British Sikhs. “I am honoured to witness this celebration of unity and resilience. The APPG has not only amplified Sikh voices in the UK, but also promoted global issues close to the heart of the Sikh community,” he said.

In a formal invitation, Jas Athwal MP highlighted the APPG’s record of more than two decades, including its advocacy for human rights – notably in the case of Jagtar Singh Johal – and called for a judge-led public inquiry into the June 1984 massacre.

APPG is committed to ensuring the recognition of Sikhs in the UK census and the provision of equal public service. The anniversary event highlighted both its historic achievements and its forward-looking agenda.

MP Athwal said, “We look forward with desire and commitment to building a more equal future for Sikhs in the UK and around the world.”

Minister Arora’s presence gave the occasion international significance, highlighted the shared values ​​among Sikh communities globally and strengthened the enduring cultural bond between the Sikh diaspora and their heritage in Punjab, Pakistan.