India Greenlights Sikh Pilgrimage to Pakistan for Prakash Purab
The Indian government has permitted Sikh pilgrims to visit Pakistan for Prakash Purab, honoring Guru Nanak Dev's birth anniversary. Limited groups will be allowed under a bilateral protocol, despite recent India-Pakistan tensions. The pilgrimage includes visits to significant gurdwaras like Nankana Sahib, with security measures in place.
- Country:
- India
In a significant development, the Indian government has granted permission to Sikh pilgrims to travel to Pakistan, marking a pivotal moment for religious diplomacy. The move comes in time for Prakash Purab, celebrating the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism.
Punjab BJP Vice President Fatehjung Singh Bajwa expressed his gratitude towards the central government for enabling this pilgrimage. Speaking on the decision, he thanked the Ministry of External Affairs for allowing devotees to embark on this spiritual journey via the Samjhauta Express on December 8.
This development reinstates a longstanding practice under the 1974 India-Pakistan protocol on religious visits, albeit with restrictions due to recent tensions. Notably, the pilgrimage includes visits to significant gurdwaras, with security measures coordinated by both governments to ensure safety for the devotees.
(With inputs from agencies.)
Google News