Mon Sep 15 17:10:36 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and news article rewrite of the provided text:
**Summary:**
The Indian central government has instructed state governments to halt processing applications for Sikh pilgrimage to Nankana Sahib, Pakistan, for Guru Nanak Dev’s birth anniversary due to the prevailing security situation. This decision has drawn strong criticism from political parties and Sikh organizations in India, who argue it infringes on religious freedom and cite historical precedent for such pilgrimages, even during times of tension. They question the logic behind allowing other forms of exchange with Pakistan while restricting religious visits and urge the government to reconsider.
**News Article:**
**Sikh Pilgrimage to Pakistan Blocked: Centre Cites Security Concerns, Sparks Outrage**
*Chandigarh, September 15, 2025* – The central government’s decision to block Sikh pilgrims from travelling to Nankana Sahib, Pakistan, for the upcoming birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev has ignited a firestorm of criticism from political parties and Sikh organizations across India. The Ministry of Home Affairs, in a communication to state governments, cited the “prevailing security scenario with Pakistan” as the reason for preventing the pilgrimage, known as a Jatha.
Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak, holds immense religious significance for Sikhs worldwide.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has blasted the decision, accusing the BJP-led central government of exhibiting a hostile attitude towards Punjab. “It’s difficult to understand if their policy is against Pakistan or against their own people,” he stated.
The opposition Congress party echoed this sentiment. “If cricket can cross borders, why can’t devotion?” questioned senior Congress leader Pargat Singh, highlighting the inconsistency of allowing trade, film exchanges, and sporting events with Pakistan while restricting religious pilgrimages.
Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) president Sukhbir Singh Badal emphasized the historical precedent for such pilgrimages, referencing the Nehru-Liaquat Pact of 1950, which specifically allows for four annual visits to Sikh holy sites in Pakistan. “Not allowing them to do so would hurt their religious feelings,” Badal said, urging the Centre to reconsider and allow pilgrims to travel at their own risk. He also noted the recent resumption of cricket ties between India and Pakistan as a sign of thawing relations.
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), the body managing historical Gurdwaras, called the decision “unfortunate,” with Secretary Pratap Singh appealing to the central government to permit the visit.
The controversy underscores the delicate balance between security concerns and religious freedom, and the ongoing complexities of India-Pakistan relations. The situation remains tense as Sikh leaders and political figures continue to pressure the government to reverse its decision.
First Piper 