New Delhi – In a move that has further strained religious freedom and interfaith harmony, India has once again barred Sikh pilgrims from traveling to Pakistan to observe the death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The decision has left nearly 500 Sikh devotees in limbo, casting uncertainty over their planned pilgrimage.
According to security sources, India has imposed a complete ban on Sikh travelers entering Pakistan since May 7, 2025. The restrictions not only prevent pilgrims from attending Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s anniversary but also keep the Kartarpur Corridor closed—a move seen as a severe blow to Sikh religious sentiments.
Deliberate Provocation Against Sikh Community?
Sources reveal that the Modi government is deliberately inciting Sikh sentiments against Pakistan as part of a broader strategy. Reports indicate that during recent aggression, Indian forces targeted Sikh-dominated areas, attempted to destroy their places of worship, and even fired missiles near Amritsar to push an anti-Pakistan narrative.
Additionally, India allegedly plotted a drone attack near Nankana Sahib, one of Sikhism’s holiest sites, intending to blame Pakistan. Such actions highlight New Delhi’s efforts to manipulate Sikh sentiments for political gains.
Decades of Anti-Sikh Policies Under Modi
Defense experts argue that India has exploited anti-Sikh sentiments for decades, and Modi’s divisive policies have made life increasingly difficult not only for Muslims but also for Sikhs. Under the 1950 agreement, India is obligated to allow Sikh pilgrims to visit Pakistan for four major religious events annually:
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Martyrdom Day of Guru Arjan Dev Ji
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Birth Anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji
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Baisakhi (Khalsa Panth Foundation Day)
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Death Anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh
However, India’s repeated violations of this agreement expose its disregard for religious freedoms.
Growing Sikh-Pakistan Ties a Thorn for Modi
Analysts suggest that the growing affinity between Pakistan and the Sikh community, along with anti-India sentiments among Sikhs, has become a major concern for the Modi administration. By blocking pilgrimages and escalating tensions, India is not only violating religious rights but also destabilizing regional peace.
International Community Urged to Intervene
Human rights organizations and Sikh groups worldwide are calling for international intervention to pressure India into upholding religious freedoms. The continued closure of the Kartarpur Corridor and restrictions on pilgrimages are seen as direct attacks on Sikh heritage and interfaith harmony.
As tensions rise, the Sikh community remains caught in the crossfire of India’s political maneuvers, further alienating a minority that has long faced discrimination.
