Allow Sikh jatha to visit Pak: DSGMC

Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) president Harmeet Singh Kalka has urged the Centre to allow a Sikh jatha to visit Gurdwara Nankana Sahib in Pakistan in November to mark the Parkash Purb (birth anniversary) of Guru Nanak Dev.

Expressing concern over the government’s reported decision to restrict the pilgrimage, citing security reasons, Kalka said the faith and devotion attached to Nankana Sahib was cherished not just by Sikhs but by followers of Guru Nanak Dev across the world.

“Even if the number of visas is reduced from 3,000 to 500 and the duration cut from 10 to five days, devotees should not be denied the opportunity,” he said.

Kalka has written to Union Home Minister Amit Shah, urging clearance for the pilgrimage in view of the religious aspirations of millions of devotees.

Highlighting the continued closure of the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor, the DSGMC president said its reopening was also a pressing demand.