Pakistan Grants Visas to Sikh Pilgrims After Ban Lift
The Indian government has officially lifted its temporary ban on pilgrimages to Pakistan, allowing the first groups of Sikh jathas to receive visas to visit revered gurdwaras across the border. The decision comes ahead of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Parkash Purb, marking a significant step in restoring religious travel between the two nations.
The Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of External Affairs jointly approved the movement of organised jathas under strict security and coordination protocols. These groups will visit key Sikh shrines, including Gurdwara Nankana Sahib and Gurdwara Panja Sahib, which hold immense spiritual importance for the Sikh community.
Pilgrimages to Pakistan had been suspended earlier due to security concerns following “Operation Sindoor.” The recent policy reversal has been widely welcomed by Sikh organisations, including the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) and the Akal Takht, which praised the Centre’s move as a gesture of respect for religious sentiments.
Leaders such as Punjab MLA Pargat Singh and other community representatives also lauded the government’s decision, calling it a positive step toward strengthening people-to-people ties and preserving cultural heritage.
Officials have clarified that while the visa process has resumed, stringent travel and security measures will remain in place to ensure the safety of all pilgrims. The move is expected to pave the way for smoother cross-border religious exchanges during future Sikh festivals.