In a move that has sparked outrage and concern, Pakistani authorities denied entry to 12 Hindu pilgrims who were part of a 1,932-member Sikh Jatha traveling to Pakistan to celebrate the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. The group crossed the Attari–Wagah border on Tuesday for the annual pilgrimage, but the 12 Hindu devotees were stopped at the immigration counters despite being initially cleared for travel. According to reports, their passports even bore immigration stamps before Pakistani officials reversed their decision, refusing them entry without providing a clear explanation.

One of the pilgrims, Amer Chand, that the group was singled out and sent back solely due to their religion. “We were part of the Sikh Jatha and wanted to go for the pilgrimage, but we were sent back just because we are Hindus,” he said. According to Chand, a Pakistani official remarked, “What will you do in this Jatha?” highlighting the discriminatory attitude faced by the group. Chand, who was previously a Pakistani national and became an Indian citizen in 2017, further alleged that the group was not refunded their travel expenses, accusing Pakistani authorities of mistreatment.

Officials in Amritsar confirmed that all 12 pilgrims safely returned to India after being denied entry. This was the first Sikh Jatha visit following Operation Sindoor, adding political and diplomatic sensitivity to the issue. The incident raises questions about Pakistan’s commitment to religious freedom and the bilateral agreements that allow Indian pilgrims to visit Sikh shrines across the border. Indian authorities are expected to raise the matter through diplomatic channels, as the move has caused widespread concern among both Sikh and Hindu communities who participate in cross-border religious pilgrimages.