Central Ceremony of Guru Arjan Dev Ji's Martyrdom Day Held in Lahore

Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora and Dr. Sajid Mehmood Chauhan Attend 

A Strong Message of Interfaith Harmony Restoration of 15 Historic Gurdwaras to Be Funded by Government of Punjab Lahore 

 Ali Imran Chattha

  A central ceremony to commemorate the martyrdom day of Guru Arjan Dev Ji was held with religious devotion and reverence at the historic Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore. The event was organized by the Evacuee Trust Property Board in collaboration with the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony. The ceremony witnessed the special participation of Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, President of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee and Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs and Human Rights, along with Dr. Sajid Mehmood Chauhan, Chairman of the Evacuee Trust Property Board. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sajid Chauhan said Guru Arjan Dev Ji gave his life for the principles of truth, tolerance, and religious harmony. “His teachings are still a guiding light for humanity,” he stated. He mentioned that despite Pakistan completing all arrangements—including red-carpet reception, accommodation, healthcare, and security—for Indian Sikh pilgrims, the Indian government did not grant them permission to travel. He reiterated that the Kartarpur Corridor remains open, and Pakistan continues to welcome Sikh pilgrims with open arms. “Our doors are always open for Indian Sikhs. Minorities in Pakistan live with complete religious freedom and protection,” he added. Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, in his speech, stated that the sacrifice of Guru Arjan Dev Ji teaches us to never submit to injustice but to stand firmly for truth. He expressed regret over India’s decision to deny travel permission to Sikh pilgrims and praised Pakistan's visa facilitation and open policy for religious tourism. He appealed to all Jathedars to bring their groups to Pakistan, perform their religious duties, and witness the beauty of the historical Gurdwaras. “Religion should not be mixed with politics; we must promote mutual love, peace, and brotherhood,” he emphasized. He also announced that the Government of Punjab is allocating special funds for the restoration of 15 historic Gurdwaras, ensuring their preservation and beauty for future generations. Participants expressed hope that Sikh pilgrims from India would be able to visit Pakistan for the upcoming anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, further promoting religious harmony between the two nations. -