India bars Sikh pilgrims from attending Guru Nanak’s birth anniversary in Pakistan

New Delhi The Indian government has barred Sikh pilgrims from traveling to Pakistan to participate in the birth anniversary celebrations of Baba Guru Nanak, sparking anger and condemnation among Sikh communities worldwide.

According to India’s Ministry of Home Affairs, the restriction was imposed citing a so-called “serious security situation.” However, Sikh organizations across the globe have rejected the claim, calling it a violation of their fundamental religious rights.

The Chief Minister of Indian Punjab, Bhagwant Mann, criticized the decision, accusing the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of double standards. He remarked that while the BJP government allows cricket matches with Pakistan for financial interests, it denies Sikhs the right to visit their sacred religious sites.

Prominent Indian journalist Rajdeep Sardesai also questioned the move, asking why cricket with Pakistan is permitted but Sikh pilgrims are not allowed to travel for religious purposes.

The Sikh Federation UK strongly condemned the Indian government’s action, terming it an unjust denial of religious freedom.