Summary Sikh pilgrims from India arrive in Pakistan for Vaisakhi festival, welcomed at Wagah with special arrangements and strong security measures.
LAHORE (Dunya News) - Sikh pilgrims from India have arrived in Pakistan via the Wagah Border to participate in the Vaisakhi festival.
The pilgrims were warmly received by Provincial Minister and Chairman of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora and Additional Secretary Shrines Evacuee Trust Property Board Nasir Mushtaq.
Commissioner Lahore and Deputy Commissioner Lahore were also present on the occasion, along with committee members including Sardar Satwant Singh, Sardar Tara Singh, Dr Mumpal Singh and Satwant Kaur.
Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora welcomed the pilgrims, saying Pakistan is the sacred land of Guru Nanak and pilgrims from India are always welcome. He said issuing visas to over 2,800 pilgrims despite strained Pakistan-India relations is a significant step, adding that Pakistan is the first home for Sikhs and its doors remain open.
He further stated that Pakistan has always promoted peace and kept its doors open for Sikh pilgrims even during difficult times, adding that even critics acknowledge Pakistan’s peace efforts.
Pilgrim group leader Sardar Harjit Singh Pappa said Pakistan is a peace-loving country and Sikhs from around the world wish to visit due to the respect they receive here.
Another pilgrim, Sardar Chintok Singh, thanked the Pakistani government for issuing 2,840 visas, stating that permission was granted despite border challenges.
Additional Secretary Nasir Mushtaq said comprehensive arrangements have been made for the pilgrims, including accommodation, food, transport, and medical facilities.
Pilgrims from Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and other Indian states were welcomed at Wagah, where they were served refreshments after immigration and customs clearance.
They will be transported in three groups to Gurdwara Janam Asthan Nankana Sahib, with the first convoy already departing under strict security. The main Vaisakhi ceremony will be held on April 14 at Gurdwara Panja Sahib.
