ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Interior is receiving widespread appreciation for its efforts in streamlining the arrival of Sikh pilgrims from across the globe who have come to Pakistan to celebrate the 555th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism.
Devotees from the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, and other countries have converged at Gurdwara Janam Asthan, Guru Nanak’s birthplace, to partake in the joyous occasion and perform religious rituals.
“We are deeply grateful to the Government of Pakistan, the Ministry of Interior, and the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony for facilitating our visit,” said Sardar Bhupinder Singh, president of the Potohar Association in England. “The online visa policy has made it incredibly easy for us to fulfill our heartfelt desire to visit Pakistan.”
Manjit Kaur, a pilgrim from England, expressed her elation, stating, “Coming here is a profoundly spiritual experience.”
The Ministry of Interior, under the guidance of Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi and Interior Secretary Khurram Agha, has implemented measures to expedite visa processing for Sikh pilgrims. The online visa system, which grants visa approvals within 30 minutes, has garnered significant praise.
Sardar Amulak Singh Ghakal, a pilgrim from the US, lauded the system, stating, “This online visa system is a remarkable step in making pilgrimages easier for Sikhs worldwide.”
Rai Bilal Akram Bhatti, Tourist Manager, highlighted the positive effects of increased pilgrim visits on tourism and cultural exchange.
Inderjeet Kaur, a pilgrim from the US, expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality shown by the Pakistani people.
The pilgrims will visit various gurdwaras in cities like Kartarpur, Lahore, and Hasan Abdal. Their pilgrimage includes the Kartarpur Corridor, which provides visa-free access to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur.
The Government of Pakistan has orchestrated comprehensive arrangements for the grand celebration of Baba Guru Nanak’s birth anniversary, with all federal and provincial departments working in concert to facilitate the pilgrims’ visit.
