Pakistan will hold a symbolic welcome ceremony for Sikh pilgrims at the Wagah Border on June 9 to mark the Guru Arjun Dev Ji jiyanti (death anniversary) — fifth Sikh Guru and the first martyr in Sikh history.
Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) and the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony will organize the event.
It coincides with the arrival of Sikh devotees from across the globe, who are coming to Pakistan to observe two major religious occasions: the death anniversary of Guru Arjun Dev Ji and the death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
Read more: Kartarpur Corridor Opens for Sikh Pilgrims from Pakistan: Foreign Office
Due to ongoing travel restrictions by the Indian government, Sikh pilgrims from India have not been granted permission to cross into Pakistan for the events.
In response, Pakistani authorities will host a symbolic welcome ceremony at the Wagah Border as a gesture of goodwill and solidarity with the Sikh community.
According to the ETPB, the symbolic ceremony will be held at 12:30pm on June 9, and will be led by Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, President of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC), and Saifullah Khan Khokhar, Additional Secretary Shrines, ETPB.
Local Sikh leaders, media representatives, and the official ETPB media team will attend the event.
Spokesperson Ghulam Mohiuddin confirmed that Pakistan has completed all preparations for visiting Sikh pilgrims, including arrangements for accommodation, meals, transport, and medical assistance.
A high-level administrative meeting chaired by Additional Secretary Shrines Khokhar reviewed and finalized all logistical plans.
In keeping with tradition, a red carpet welcome will be arranged for pilgrims.
Despite Indian pilgrims’ absence, the symbolic ceremony is aimed at showcasing Pakistan’s commitment to minority rights and interfaith harmony.
