India Condemns Demolition of Historic Gurdwara in Pakistan
India on Wednesday strongly condemned the reported demolition of the historic 125-year-old Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Pakistan's Farooqabad, describing it as a "highly deplorable and targeted act of vandalism" against a revered Sikh shrine. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) called on Islamabad to bring those responsible to justice and ensure the immediate restoration of the demolished portions.
Responding to media queries, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that New Delhi was deeply disturbed by reports of the demolition and the alleged inaction of Pakistani authorities. "We have seen the deeply distressing reports regarding the demolition of the historic 125-year-old sacred Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Farooqabad, Pakistan. We strongly condemn this highly deplorable and targeted act of vandalism against a revered Sikh shrine," Jaiswal said in a statement.
Systematic Targeting of Religious Minorities
The MEA said the reported incident was not an isolated case and expressed concern over the "systematic targeting" of religious minorities and their places of worship in Pakistan. "This is unfortunately not an isolated incident, as we have also seen similar reports earlier. The systemic targeting of religious minorities and their places of worship in Pakistan continues unabated," the spokesperson added.
India urged the Government of Pakistan to carry out a prompt investigation into the incident and ensure that those responsible are held accountable. "We call upon the Government of Pakistan to expeditiously investigate this matter and bring the perpetrators of this despicable act to justice," the statement said.
Restoration and Reconstruction Demanded
The MEA also called for the immediate restoration and reconstruction of the demolished portions of the historic gurdwara. "The demolished portions of the Gurdwara Sahib should be restored and reconstructed at the earliest," Jaiswal said. India further urged Pakistan to fulfill its responsibility to safeguard minority communities and protect their religious sites.
"Further, we urge the Government of Pakistan to discharge its obligations to ensure the safety, security, and well-being of its minority communities and their places of worship and put a decisive end to the prevailing environment of sectarian violence and religious intolerance in Pakistan," the statement added.
Context of Religious Intolerance in Pakistan
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by religious minorities in Pakistan, where places of worship have been targeted in the past. The Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), which manages minority religious sites, has been criticized for inaction. India's strong response underscores the importance of protecting cultural and religious heritage in the region.
