If cricket match can be played, why restrictions on pilgrims? — Akal Takht acting Jathedar slams Centre for denying Sikh jatha visit to Pakistan on Guru Nanak Jayanti
The acting Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib says as per bilateral agreements, Sikh jathas are permitted to visit historic gurdwaras in Pakistan every year
PTC Web Desk: Akal Takht Sahib’s acting Jathedar, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj has strongly criticised the Government of India’s decision not to send a Sikh jatha to Pakistan in November for the upcoming Parkash Purb of Guru Nanak Dev ji, terming the move “unjust and hurtful” to Sikh sentiments.
He questioned the rationale behind the decision, saying, “If India and Pakistan can play cricket with each other, then why can’t Sikh pilgrims be allowed to visit Pakistan?” He said peace and progress in the region required cordial relations between the two nations and the reopening of trade and cultural exchanges.
The acting Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib said as per bilateral agreements, Sikh jathas are permitted to visit historic gurdwaras in Pakistan every year. However, this year’s restrictions would deny Sikh devotees the opportunity to attend the Gurpurb celebrations at Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. He added that Sikhs across the world observe Guru Nanak’s birth anniversary with deep devotion, and thousands traditionally travel to Nankana Sahib to pay homage.
Calling on both governments to prioritise dialogue and goodwill over hostility, Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj said, “Any hostility between the two countries should not affect the spiritual and cultural ties of the communities. If cricket matches can be played, allowing Sikh pilgrims should not be an issue.” He urged the Pakistan government to ensure full security for Sikh pilgrims if the jatha is permitted to travel.
The Jathedar also criticised political parties in Punjab for opposing India-Pakistan cricket matches while overlooking Sikh religious rights. He appealed for a broader vision, saying only mutual love and understanding could sustain peace in the region, not division and hate.
Expressing further concern, he pointed out that while Sikh organisations have been consistently demanding the reopening of the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor, the Indian government’s new restrictions on annual pilgrimage visas have deepened the community’s sense of alienation. He reminded that Sikhs and Punjabis suffered immense displacement and trauma during the Partition of 1947, which had already separated them from many sacred shrines, and now such decisions only add to their pain.