Sikh Pilgrims Demand Reopening of Kartarpur Corridor

News Desk
NAROWAL: Sikh pilgrims from across the globe, gathered to mark the 487th death anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak, have lodged a strong protest against India’s continued closure of the Kartarpur Corridor.
Concluding the three-day religious celebrations at Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Shakargarh on Tuesday, the participants argued that restricting access to the sacred site severely violates their religious freedom.
A large contingent of international and domestic pilgrims, including men, women, and children, participated in the festivities, performing traditional rituals, laying a chadar at the Samadhi, and taking part in the Nagar Kirtan procession near the Pakistan-India Zero Line.
The attendees maintained that the unilateral suspension by New Delhi undermines interfaith harmony and prevents devotees from fulfilling their spiritual obligations.
The ongoing closure highlights persistent diplomatic friction and bureaucratic hurdles impacting cross-border religious tourism. While Pakistan has consistently facilitated visa-free access and maintained state-of-the-art infrastructure at the complex to welcome pilgrims, regional geopolitical tensions continue to impede seamless travel for minority communities seeking spiritual solace.

Community leaders and global Sikh organizations have urged the international community to pressure the Indian government into reconsidering its policy. Further delegations are expected to raise the matter at diplomatic forums to ensure year-round, unhindered access to one of Sikhism’s holiest shrines.