Guidelines Issued for Sikh Pilgrims Visiting Pakistan

News Desk 

Lahore: In light of reports regarding the exploitation of Sikh pilgrims visiting Pakistan to celebrate the 555th birthday of Guru Nanak Dev, the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC) and Provincial Minister for Minorities Affairs Ramesh Singh Arora have issued important advisories for all pilgrims.

The minister urged pilgrims to carry cash in US dollars and to refrain from paying fees to group organizers who demand charges for pilgrimage services. He noted that the PSGPC has received multiple complaints regarding unfavorable exchange rates for Indian currency during the visits of pilgrims to Pakistan.

Arora explained that due to the lack of formal diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan, private money exchangers set their own rates, often leading to significant losses for the visiting pilgrims.

Groups from India are scheduled to arrive in Pakistan on November 14 and will return on November 23 after the celebrations at Gurdwara Janam Asthan in Nankana Sahib on November 15. During their visit, they will also tour various other gurdwaras.

The minister emphasized, “I advise Indian pilgrims to bring internationally recognized currency, especially US dollars, as they offer more favorable exchange rates globally. This will help them avoid losses while shopping, traveling, or making offerings.”

He also addressed complaints about some group organizers demanding payment in exchange for pilgrimage visas, clarifying that the official invitation clearly states that this service is free of charge. He urged pilgrims to reject such demands.

Additionally, Saifullah Khokhar, Additional Secretary (Shrines) of the Evacuee Trust Property Board, expressed concern over the financial demands made by group organizers.

He assured that announcements will be made during the religious gathering in Nankana Sahib to protect innocent pilgrims from exploitation.