Kartarpur shows Pakistan commitment to religious freedom of minorities as India blocks Sikh sangat

Sikh devotees in Pakistan reached the Zero Line at the Kartarpur Corridor and performed religious rituals, while security forces on the Indian side reportedly stopped a Sikh gathering from proceeding towards the border, reported 24NewsHD TV.

The Sikh community in Pakistan participated in a special Ardas, Shabad Gurbani Kirtan and Aarti at the Zero Line as part of their religious observances.

On the Indian side, security forces reportedly prevented the Sikh gathering, led by Acting Jathedar of Akal Takht Sahib Sardar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj, from moving towards the Zero Line.

Punjab Minister for Minority Affairs Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora said Pakistan had presented the Kartarpur Corridor as a gift to the Sikh community in 2019 and had always advocated the rights and religious freedom of minorities, adding that the Constitution of Pakistan guarantees every citizen the freedom to practice their religion.

Acting Jathedar of Akal Takht Sahib Sardar Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj said the Sikh community wanted the Kartarpur Corridor to be reopened so devotees could visit Kartarpur Sahib.

He said reopening the corridor would contribute to improving relations and creating a more positive atmosphere between Pakistan and India.

The Kartarpur Corridor remains a significant symbol of religious tolerance, interfaith harmony and Pakistan’s stated commitment to facilitating Sikh pilgrims visiting their sacred sites.