India’s ban on Sikh yatris to Pakistan sparks backlash
Decision reflects BJP’s anti-Punjab mindset: Bhagwant Mann
New Delhi: The Indian government has come under fire after refusing to grant permission to Sikh pilgrims wishing to travel to Pakistan in November for the birth anniversary celebrations of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. Citing “security concerns,” the decision has sparked strong backlash from political leaders and religious organizations in Punjab.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann was among the first to condemn the move, calling it a clear display of double standards. “The government is allowing India-Pakistan cricket matches, yet denying Sikhs the right to visit their holy sites. This is hypocrisy,” Mann said.
A media report revealed that on September 12, a letter was sent to the Chief Secretaries of Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi, instructing them to notify Sikh organizations and halt the processing of pilgrimage applications. The letter stated that due to the current security situation with Pakistan, sending Sikh pilgrims across the border in November 2025 would not be feasible.
Bhagwant Mann questioned the government’s inconsistent approach. “If cricket matches can happen, why can’t religious visits? Either permit all forms of engagement with Pakistan or none at all. You maintain cricket ties because the ICC is headed by the Home Minister’s son (Jay Shah), but you deny Sikhs their religious rights, citing strained bilateral relations post-Operation Sindoor.”
He also highlighted the economic disparity, pointing out that while trade from Gujarat and Mumbai to Karachi is allowed, trade through the Wagah border remains suspended. “Why are Sikh pilgrims being singled out? Is this not reflective of BJP’s anti-Punjab, anti-Punjabi mindset? Perhaps it’s because Punjabi farmers forced them to repeal the three farm laws.”
Shiromani Akali Dal President Sukhbir Singh Badal also urged Indian Home Minister Amit Shah to reconsider the decision, stressing that Sikh pilgrims are deeply committed to visiting their sacred shrines in Pakistan.
Congress MLA Pargat Singh echoed the criticism, saying, “On one hand, you’re playing cricket with Pakistan; on the other, you’re denying religious pilgrimages. This reveals a disturbing inconsistency in national priorities.”
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) also condemned the move. SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami stated, “Sikh pilgrims have been visiting religious sites in Pakistan for decades without incident. This is the first time such an unjustified ban has been imposed.”
