Centre Criticized for Halting Sikh Pilgrims’ Visit to Pakistan’s Nankana Sahib

Swift Summary:

• Political parties and Sikh groups criticized the Center’s recent directive that State governments should not process applications for pilgrimage to Nankana Sahib in Pakistan on Guru Nanak Dev’s birth anniversary in November 2025.
• The Ministry of Home Affairs cited security concerns regarding the “prevailing scenario with Pakistan” as the reason for its decision.
• Nankana Sahib is Guru Nanak’s birthplace and a significant religious site for Sikhs.
• Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann condemned the move, questioning whether it targeted Pakistan or India’s own citizens, calling it hostile towards Punjab.
• Congress leader Pargat Singh pointed out inconsistencies with ongoing cricket matches, trade, and film exchanges between India and Pakistan while forbidding faith-based travel. He stated devotion should not be restricted across borders.
• Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal referred to the Nehru-Liaquat Pact of 1950 that guarantees Sikh pilgrims four annual visits to holy sites in Pakistan. He urged the Centre to reconsider its stance and allow visits at personal risk,noting pilgrimages had occurred even during periods of heightened Indo-Pak tension.
• The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), which oversees historical Gurdwaras, called this decision “unfortunate” and appealed for reconsideration.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

The Centre’s decision has sparked sharp reactions from political leaders and religious organizations highlighting its potential implications on religious freedoms guaranteed under existing bilateral agreements like the Nehru-Liaquat Pact. Critics have underscored an apparent mismatch between cultural exchanges such as sports diplomacy with Pakistan versus restrictions on spiritual pilgrimage-a matter of profound importance to Sikhs.

This issue also reveals broader sensitivities around Indo-Pak relations where national security considerations consistently intersect with personal liberties.while security is a legitimate concern given cross-border tensions,any selective approach risks alienating communities reliant on such access within a constitutional framework.

The appeals from multiple stakeholders suggest an opportunity for constructive dialogue aimed at balancing safety concerns without undermining Sikh traditions or community sentiments. Ensuring secure yet respectful pathways for pilgrimage could reaffirm India’s commitment to pluralistic values amidst geopolitical complexities.

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