Pakistan marked on Saturday the 186th anniversary of the death of Maharaja Ranjit Singh with solemn ceremonies in Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore, but the absence of Sij Indian pilgrims threw a shadow on the commemorations.
The Indian authorities denied permission for a Devotos SIJ delegation to travel to Pakistan despite the official invitation of Islamabad, according to Pakistani officials.
The measure has generated strong criticisms of leaders and defenders of SIJ rights, who described it discriminatory and a violation of religious freedom.
Dr. Saxid Mehmood Chauhan, president of the Evacuee Trust (ETPB) Board, addressed the meeting and paid tribute to the legacy of religious tolerance of Ranjit Singh.
“Ranjit Singh built not only a SIJ state, but one rooted with respect to all religions,” said Chauhan. “Blocking the Sikhs to visit their mausoleum is a serious injustice.”
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A large number of Pakistani devotees gathered in Samadhi (mausoleum) of Ranjit Singh to offer sentences and remember the founder of the Sij Empire, widely venerated by promoting pluralism.
Chauhan said that Pakistan had restored Sijs Sijs such as Nankana Sahib, Panja Sahib and Dera Sahib. He also pointed out the facilities provided to pilgrims, including accommodation, medical care, langar and security.
The additional secretary sanctuaries, Saifullah Khokhar, said the event was a symbol of interreligious peace and cultural preservation. “Pilgrims around the world return with respect and love for the hospitality of Pakistan,” he said.
Sardar Bishan Singh, former head of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Pakistan Committee, said sadness for India’s decision. “It’s heartbreaking for the Global Sikh community,” he said. “In contrast, minorities in Pakistan feel protected.”
Punjab minority minority and the current president of the Committee, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, did not attend for personal reasons.
The event concluded with the SIJ sentences, highlighting Pakistan’s continuous efforts to protect religious heritage despite regional tensions.
