Amritsar: The central government has declined to grant permission for the proposed Sikh pilgrimage to Nankana Sahib in Pakistan on the occasion of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s birth anniversary, citing security concerns along the Indo-Pak border.
In a letter addressed to the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the Ministry of Home Affairs stated that the prevailing situation at the international border does not allow for safe travel. The ministry expressed apprehension that facilitating the movement of pilgrims at this time could pose risks, given the tense environment between the two nations.
According to the letter, while the importance of the occasion is acknowledged, national security must remain a priority. The Home Ministry has therefore advised against proceeding with the proposed religious visit.
SGPC Voices Disappointment
Reacting strongly to the Centre’s decision, SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami expressed deep disappointment. He criticized the move, stating that it undermines the religious sentiments of the Sikh community.
“This is not just a denial of travel permission; it is a denial of the Sikh community’s emotional and spiritual connection with its sacred sites,” said Dhami. “When cultural exchanges and even cricket matches between India and Pakistan can be considered, why can’t pilgrims be allowed to visit the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji?”
The SGPC has urged the central government to reconsider its decision and prioritize religious freedom alongside security concerns. The committee emphasized that spiritual journeys such as these hold profound significance for Sikhs around the world, especially during holy occasions like Prakash Parv.
Nankana Sahib, located in Pakistan’s Punjab province, is the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. Every year, thousands of devotees from India and abroad express their desire to visit the site to take part in special celebrations marking his birth anniversary.
Such visits are typically coordinated through diplomatic channels under the framework of religious exchange agreements between the two countries. However, approvals depend on prevailing geopolitical conditions.
Appeal for Dialogue
The SGPC has reiterated its call for constructive dialogue between New Delhi and Islamabad to ensure that religious pilgrimages are not held hostage to political tensions. It has also requested that alternative arrangements or assurances be explored to allow a limited group of pilgrims to travel under safe conditions.
As of now, no official indication has been given that the government plans to reverse or review its decision.
