ISLAMABAD (special crosspondent) – Indian Sikh pilgrims departed for their homeland through the Wagah Border on Tuesday after participating in the commemorative events marking the 187th death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. They lauded Pakistan’s hospitality, well-preserved Sikh heritage, and commitment to interfaith harmony.

The pilgrims were seen off by Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) Secretary Nasir Mushtaq. Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC) President Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora and other committee members were also present at the border crossing.

Pilgrims Express Gratitude for Arrangements

Before their departure, the pilgrims shared their appreciation for the warm welcome, respect, and care they received during their stay in Pakistan. They reported experiencing an atmosphere of peace, religious tolerance, and brotherhood, stating that the arrangements made for their pilgrimage surpassed their expectations.

Praise for Sikh Heritage Management

The visitors commended the management of Sikh holy sites, specifically highlighting the cleanliness, restoration, and preservation of gurdwaras. They also noted the quality of accommodation, langar services, transportation, medical assistance, and security provided. The pilgrims affirmed that Pakistan is making significant efforts to protect and promote Sikh religious heritage, positioning it as an appealing destination for pilgrims globally.

The pilgrims conveyed that Sikhs worldwide are eager to visit Pakistan’s sacred religious sites and pledged to share their positive experiences and Pakistan’s message of peace, love, and interfaith harmony upon their return.

Ongoing Gurdwara Restoration and ETPB Efforts

PSGPC President Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora stated that the departing pilgrims were carrying cherished memories and goodwill for Pakistan. He highlighted that restoration and renovation work is currently underway at approximately 50 gurdwaras across the country, aimed at preserving Sikh heritage for future generations. He also acknowledged the contributions of ETPB Chairman Qamar-ul-Zaman, Secretary Nasir Mushtaq, and their team for ensuring the successful management of the pilgrimage.

ETPB Secretary Nasir Mushtaq confirmed that all arrangements were implemented following the directives of Chairman Qamar-ul-Zaman to ensure maximum comfort for the pilgrims. He mentioned that heat relief centres were established in response to the intense weather conditions, and mineral water and chilled juices were distributed to the pilgrims at the Wagah Border prior to their departure.

He further elaborated that the ETPB, district administration, and law enforcement agencies collaborated closely to guarantee comprehensive security throughout the duration of the pilgrimage. Pakistan, he reiterated, remains steadfast in its commitment to fostering religious tourism, safeguarding minority places of worship, and bolstering interfaith harmony.

Upon the conclusion of the pilgrimage, the Indian Sikh visitors returned to their homeland, carrying with them memories of Pakistan’s hospitality and a message of peace, mutual respect, and religious coexistence.