Pakistan marked on Saturday 186th anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh with solemn ceremonies in Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore, but the absence of Indian Sikh pilgrims casts a shadow over the memorials.
Indian authorities refused permission for a delegation of SIKH assigned to travel to Pakistan despite Islamabad’s official invitation, according to Pakistani officials.
The move has drawn sharp criticism from SIKH leaders and rights lawyers who called the discriminatory and a violation of religious freedom.
Dr. Sajid Mehmood Chauhan, President of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), treated the collection and paid tribute to Ranjit Singh’s heritage of religious tolerance.
“Ranjit Singh not only built a Sikh state, but a rooted in respect of all faiths,” said Chauhan. “To block Sikhs from visiting his mausoleum is a serious injustice.”
Read: Global Sikh -Society thanked for solidarity
A large number of Pakistani Sikh -Released gathered at Ranjit Singh’s Samadhi (Mausoleum) to offer prayers and remember the founder of the Sikh empire, which was much honored to promote pluralism.
Chauhan said Pakistan had recovered key -sikh places including Nankana Sahib, Panja Sahib and Dera SaBib. He also noticed the facilities delivered to pilgrims, including accommodation, healthcare, Langar and safety.
Further secretary shrines, Saifullah Khokhar, said the event was a symbol of interreligious peace and cultural preservation. “Pilgrims from all over the world go back with respect and love for Pakistan’s hospitality,” he said.
Sardar Bishan Singh, former head of Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Prabandhak committee, expressed grief over India’s decision. “It’s heartbreaking for the global SIKH community,” he said. “In contrast, minorities in Pakistan feel protected.”
Punjab’s minister of minorities and current committee president, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, did not attend for personal reasons.
The event ended with Sikh beans and highlighted Pakistan’s continued efforts to protect religious heritage despite regional tensions.
