Kartarpur Corridor Closure: Pilgrimage Dream Deferred Amidst Security Fears
The Indian government’s refusal to grant permission for Sikh pilgrims to visit Pakistan for Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s birth anniversary on November 1, 2025, has sparked widespread protests. The decision, announced on September 15, 2025, cites serious security concerns as the primary reason.
Several prominent Sikh organizations have voiced their strong opposition to the ban. They are urging the government to reconsider, proposing a scaled-down pilgrimage with a smaller group and a shorter duration. The aim, they say, is to uphold the vital tradition of commemorating the birth anniversary at the Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara.
The government’s stance remains firm, highlighting the prevailing security situation along the India-Pakistan border. Discussions between government officials and Sikh representatives are ongoing, but a resolution remains elusive.
This decision carries significant religious and political weight, impacting not only the Sikh community but also India-Pakistan relations. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether a compromise can be reached to allow a symbolic pilgrimage, preserving a deeply held religious tradition.
