In a move that has stirred significant unrest within the Sikh community, Pakistan has reportedly denied visas to 1,481 Sikh devotees seeking to commemorate the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev on November 15. This development has been met with strong condemnation from Sikh leaders, who view the action as a display of insensitivity towards their religious sentiments.
Harjinder Singh Dhami, President of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), voiced his dismay on Saturday over the alleged denial of visas. He revealed that while the SGPC had submitted passports of 2,244 devotees to the Pakistan embassy in Delhi, only 763 visas were granted. “It is unfortunate and deeply disappointing that such a large number of our devotees have been denied the opportunity to pay their respects,” Dhami stated. He emphasized that both the Indian and Pakistani governments need to urgently address this issue to prevent further disenchantment among the Sikh faithful.
The SGPC had organized the pilgrimage well in advance, aiming for a significant cross-border jatha (procession) to honor Guru Nanak Dev’s legacy. The planned journey was set to commence on November 14 through the Attari-Wagah land route, a historic pathway that has facilitated Sikh pilgrimages for decades. The denial of visas not only hampers religious observance but also threatens to strain the fragile relations between the two neighboring countries.
This is not the first instance where visa issues have impeded Sikh devotees from visiting sacred sites in Pakistan. Previous years have seen similar challenges, although diplomatic dialogues have occasionally led to resolutions. However, the current denial reflects a growing apprehension among Sikhs about the accessibility and acceptance of their religious practices in Pakistan.
The SGPC has reiterated that it has previously raised this concern with both Indian and Pakistani authorities, seeking a collaborative effort to ensure the smooth facilitation of the pilgrimage. “Our devotees have long upheld the spirit of Guru Nanak Dev by promoting peace and understanding between nations. It is disheartening to see these efforts undermined by such administrative hurdles,” Dhami added.
As the Guru Nanak Dev birth anniversary approaches, the Sikh community remains hopeful that diplomatic channels will open to resolve the visa impasse. The SGPC continues to call for an immediate review of the visa denials, advocating for an inclusive approach that honors the universal values of Guru Nanak Dev’s teachings.
In the meantime, many devotees express their frustration and disappointment, fearing that such setbacks may discourage future pilgrimages. The call for unity and mutual respect resonates louder than ever, as Sikhs around the world stand in solidarity with those denied access to their sacred celebrations.
