In a decisive move reflecting current geopolitical tensions, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has declined Pakistan’s invitation to send a Sikh jatha (delegation) for the death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, scheduled for June 29 at Gurdwara Dehra Sahib, Lahore.

The invitation, issued by Pakistan’s Evacuee Trust Property Board on June 2, 2025, called upon Sikh pilgrims from around the world, including India, to participate in the annual event. However, the SGPC cited heightened security concerns and diplomatic strain following the recent Pahalgam terror attack, which Indian intelligence has linked to Pakistan-based operatives.

Safety Takes Priority

SGPC Secretary S. Partap Singh clarified the committee’s position:

“While the SGPC has consistently facilitated pilgrimages to Pakistan for this sacred occasion, the current security climate leaves us with no choice but to refrain this year. The safety of the Sangat is paramount.”

This marks a rare decision to suspend participation in the historic observance, emphasizing the SGPC’s alignment with national sentiment and security interests.

A Revered Figure in Sikh History

Maharaja Ranjit Singh, revered as the Sher-e-Punjab (Lion of Punjab), was the founder of the Sikh Empire and a towering figure in 19th-century India. His death anniversary is a major event in the Sikh calendar, drawing hundreds of devotees each year to Lahore, where he was cremated.

Community Response

The SGPC’s move has sparked widespread discussions within the Sikh community, with many supporting the decision as a responsible and principled stand amidst escalating Indo-Pak tensions.

“While spiritual obligations are vital, they must be balanced with ground realities. The SGPC has acted wisely,” noted a senior Sikh scholar from Punjab University.

Religious Pilgrimage and Geopolitical Realities

This development underlines the complex interplay between faith and diplomacy. While religious pilgrimages foster cultural bonds, they can be disrupted by political volatility. The SGPC’s decision reflects a broader concern: how to maintain spiritual traditions without compromising safety or national integrity.

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