Amritsar, June 16, 2025 — SGPC Cancels Sikh Pilgrimage to Pakistan Amid Rising Tensions: In light of escalating diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) called off the much-anticipated Sikh pilgrimage to Pakistan that was scheduled for June 29. The annual religious trip was meant to commemorate the death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh at Gurdwara Dehra Sahib in Lahore. Despite receiving over 200 passports from eager devotees, the SGPC made the difficult decision to cancel the event.
SGPC Secretary Partap Singh explained that although the spiritual journey holds deep significance, the current political climate and security concerns necessitated a cancellation. He added that the safety and well-being of pilgrims must remain the committee’s top priority.
Safety First: SGPC Prioritizes Devotees’ Security
Given the recent deterioration in India-Pakistan relations, the SGPC cited official travel advisories and border restrictions as major factors behind the suspension. Although the committee remained hopeful until the last moment, the lack of assurance from both governments led to a final decision.
Partap Singh further urged all affected pilgrims to reach out to the SGPC’s Travel Department for information regarding passport returns and future travel plans. He reassured the community that once circumstances stabilize, the committee will resume efforts to facilitate the cross-border religious visits.
SGPC President Condemns Union Minister’s Alleged Act
In a separate development, SGPC President Harjinder Singh Dhami strongly condemned Union Minister Sukanta Majumdar for allegedly throwing a slipper that struck a Sikh man’s turban on June 12. Dhami demanded swift legal action, stressing that the Sikh community has always played a vital role in India’s freedom movement and continues to uphold the nation’s integrity.
Although Kolkata Police reportedly registered a case against Majumdar, the BJP dismissed the claims, stating that the incident involved only a piece of paper, not a slipper.
Book on Pakistani Gurdwaras Launched to Educate Youth
Despite the cancellation, the SGPC continued its efforts to preserve Sikh heritage. SGPC President Dhami released a new book titled “Pakistan De Gurdhama Di Yatra”, written by Jaswant Singh Isewal. The book offers historical insights into the gurdwaras located across Pakistan and aims to educate the younger generation about their cultural and spiritual roots.
Through this publication, the SGPC hopes to keep the connection between Sikh heritage and Pakistan alive, even as physical access remains limited.
As diplomatic strains continue to disrupt religious exchanges, the SGPC’s decision underscores the importance of placing safety above sentiment. Nevertheless, the Sikh community remains hopeful that future dialogue and peace will restore the sacred Sikh pilgrimage to Pak
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