Mon Oct 13 18:01:35 UTC 2025: ## News Article: Afghan Hindu and Sikh Delegation Seeks Security Guarantees from Taliban Foreign Minister in New Delhi
**New Delhi, India – October 14, 2025:** A delegation of Afghan Hindus and Sikhs, now residing in India, met with Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi in New Delhi on Monday, seeking assurances of safety and protection for their community and religious sites should they choose to return to Afghanistan.
The meeting, lasting approximately 50 minutes, saw the delegation, comprised of representatives from various organizations including the Gurudwara Guru Nanak Sahib Ji in Delhi and the India World Forum, convey their concerns about religious persecution and the occupation of minority-owned properties in Afghanistan. They emphasized that a safe and secure environment is paramount for any potential return.
“The Minister was keen that the Afghan Sikhs and Hindus return to their country, but it is not possible unless the safety is guaranteed,” stated Guljeet Singh, president of Gurudwara Guru Nanak Sahib Ji, who was part of the 15-member delegation.
The delegation also requested Minister Muttaqi to facilitate a visit by prominent Hindu and Sikh leaders from India to Afghanistan to assess the condition and oversee the restoration of historical gurdwaras and temples. Furthermore, they advocated for minority representation in the Afghan government, suggesting the appointment of Hindu and Sikh individuals to high-ranking positions and within the Afghan mission in India.
Puneet Singh Chandhoke, president of the India World Forum, reiterated the historical presence of Hindus and Sikhs in Afghanistan and appealed for the restoration of property rights and estate ownership for minorities. He further urged the Taliban government to issue directives ensuring security and assistance for the maintenance of gurdwaras and temples across all provinces in Afghanistan.
The meeting comes as the Taliban government seeks to engage with the international community. This visit of the Foreign Minister to India is a crucial step in that process. The outcome of these discussions and the Taliban’s response to the delegation’s requests will be closely watched as it will significantly impact the future of the Hindu and Sikh communities and their potential return to Afghanistan.
First Piper 