By maleeha zahid
Copyright dailytimes
Published on: September 25, 2025 3:23 PM
India has barred Sikh pilgrims from traveling to Pakistan for the celebrations of Baba Guru Nanak’s birth anniversary, sparking anger and disappointment among Sikh communities worldwide. The decision has been widely criticized as a violation of religious freedom and an attempt to restrict the community from honoring one of its most sacred traditions.
The Indian Ministry of Home Affairs issued a notice citing a “serious security situation” as the reason for the ban. However, Sikh organizations around the globe rejected this explanation, labeling it false and accusing New Delhi of stripping the community of its fundamental religious rights. They emphasized that political disputes should not interfere with deeply rooted spiritual practices.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann strongly criticized the move, calling it an example of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party’s double standards. He pointed out that while Sikh devotees are barred from visiting holy sites in Pakistan, the government has no hesitation in permitting cricket matches with Pakistan when financial interests are involved. His remarks echoed growing frustration within Indian Punjab.
Read more : India faces criticism for blocking Sikh pilgrims‘ visit
Indian journalist Rajdeep Sardesai also raised tough questions, asking why cricket matches with Pakistan are considered acceptable, yet Sikh pilgrims are denied permission to attend religious ceremonies across the border. His criticism underscored the contradictions in the government’s approach and further fueled public debate on the issue.
Meanwhile, the Sikh Federation UK condemned the Indian government’s decision, calling it discriminatory and unjust. The group stressed that faith-based travel must remain above politics and demanded that India respect the rights of Sikhs to practice their religion freely. The global Sikh diaspora has also urged international bodies to take notice of the ban.
Read more : India blocks Sikh pilgrims from Guru Nanak anniversary in Pakistan
This controversy has not only intensified feelings of alienation within the Sikh community but has also drawn attention to the broader issue of religious freedoms in India. Observers warn that such decisions risk deepening divisions, damaging India’s democratic image, and further straining people-to-people ties between India and Pakistan.
