HASAN ABDAL – The central celebrations for the Baisakhi Mela and the 327th Khalsa Janam Din have officially concluded at Gurdwara Panja Sahib, Hasan Abdal. Held under the supervision of the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), the event saw thousands of Sikh pilgrims from India and around the globe gather to perform their religious rituals with traditional devotion and security.

Government Reaffirms Commitment to Religious Freedom

Addressing the central ceremony, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Inter-faith Harmony, Sardar Mohammad Yusuf, conveyed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s greetings to the Sikh community. The Minister emphasized that Pakistan remains a peace-loving nation where minorities enjoy complete religious freedom.

"The Government of Pakistan considers it a primary responsibility to provide equal rights and world-class facilities to all minorities," the Minister stated. He highlighted ongoing development projects, including a 900 million rupee residential block in Nankana Sahib and restoration work currently active at 18 Gurdwaras across the country.

Infrastructure and Minority Welfare

The ETPB, led by Chairman Qamar-uz-Zaman, has implemented extensive measures for the upkeep of shrines and hospitality services. Key highlights shared during the event include:

• A dedicated 5% job quota for minorities within the ETPB.

• The completion of modern facilities and washrooms at Gurdwara Panja Sahib.

• Seamless coordination between the Punjab Government, Police, Health, and Rescue departments to ensure pilgrim safety.

International Praise for Pakistan’s Hospitality

Sardar Surjeet Singh, head of the Indian Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), expressed deep gratitude to the Pakistani authorities. He noted that the level of security and respect provided to pilgrims made them feel like "state ministers," specifically praising the lodging, transport, and medical arrangements.

Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, Provincial Minister and President of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC), reiterated that Pakistan is ready to welcome even larger numbers of pilgrims. He also called upon the Indian government to fully functionalize the Kartarpur Corridor to facilitate easier access for devotees.

Diplomatic Presence and Future Itinerary

The closing ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials and ambassadors from Canada, Australia, and Azerbaijan. Following the conclusion of rituals, special prayers were offered for the peace, security, and prosperity of Pakistan.

The Sikh pilgrims are scheduled to depart for Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, Kartarpur on April 15. Their journey will continue to Gurdwara Rohri Sahib in Eminabad on April 17, before arriving in Lahore.