Absence of Indian Sikh pilgrims mars Ranjit Singh's anniversary celebrations

Indian authorities denied permission to Sikh devotees to travel to Pakistan despite Islamabad's official invitation

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Pakistan marked on Saturday the 186th death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh with solemn ceremonies at Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore, but the absence of Indian Sikh pilgrims cast a shadow over the commemorations.

Indian authorities denied permission for a delegation of Sikh devotees to travel to Pakistan despite Islamabad's official invitation, according to Pakistani officials.

The move has drawn sharp criticism from Sikh leaders and rights advocates, who called it discriminatory and a violation of religious freedom.

Dr Sajid Mehmood Chauhan, Chairperson of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), addressed the gathering and paid tribute to Ranjit Singh’s legacy of religious tolerance.

“Ranjit Singh built not just a Sikh state, but one rooted in respect for all faiths,” Chauhan said. “Blocking Sikhs from visiting his mausoleum is a grave injustice.”

Read: Global Sikh community thanked for solidarity

A large number of Pakistani Sikh devotees gathered at Ranjit Singh’s samadhi (mausoleum) to offer prayers and remember the founder of the Sikh Empire, widely revered for promoting pluralism.

Chauhan said Pakistan had restored key Sikh sites including Nankana Sahib, Panja Sahib and Dera Sahib. He also noted the facilities provided to pilgrims, including accommodation, healthcare, langar, and security.

Additional Secretary Shrines, Saifullah Khokhar, said the event was a symbol of interfaith peace and cultural preservation. “Pilgrims from around the world go back with respect and love for Pakistan’s hospitality,” he said.

Sardar Bishan Singh, former head of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee, voiced sorrow over India’s decision. “It’s heartbreaking for the global Sikh community,” he said. “In contrast, minorities in Pakistan feel protected.”

Punjab’s Minister for Minorities and current Committee President, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, did not attend due to personal reasons.

The event concluded with Sikh prayers, highlighting Pakistan’s continued efforts to protect religious heritage despite regional tensions.