Pakistani Officials Deny Hindu Pilgrim Entry with Sikh Group
Seven Indian citizens were denied entry into Pakistan while attempting to join a Sikh pilgrimage. Amar Chand, a Hindu from Delhi, shared his experience after being turned away along with six family members.
Background of the Pilgrimage
A large group of approximately 1,900 Sikh pilgrims entered Pakistan through the Attari-Wagah border on November 4. They were in the country to celebrate the ‘Parkash Purb’ of Guru Nanak, which lasts until November 13.
Entry Denied to Hindu Pilgrims
Chand recounted how his group completed all entry requirements and planned to visit several important gurdwaras. They intended to pray at notable sites such as:
- Gurdwara Nankana Sahib
- Gurdwara Panja Sahib
- Gurdwara Sacha Sauda
- Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, Kartarpur
After crossing the border, they purchased bus tickets for a total of 95,000 Pakistani Rupees. However, just as they were about to board, they were approached by Pakistani officials.
Officials’ Justification
According to Chand, officials informed them, “you are Hindu, you cannot go with a Sikh jatha.” This explanation led to their immediate deportation back to India. The Indian officials expressed concern over the treatment of the pilgrims.
Consequences for the Pilgrims
Not only were Chand and his relatives sent back, but the money spent on their bus tickets was also not refunded. Chand, who had migrated from Pakistan to India in 1999 and later gained Indian citizenship in 2010, has now faced significant disappointment.
In addition to Chand’s group, there were reports of seven other individuals from Lucknow also being denied entry. This incident highlights ongoing challenges faced by individuals wishing to participate in cross-border religious events.
