A group of 94 Sikh pilgrims from Haryana was prevented from crossing into Pakistan, prompting the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) Haryana to demand a high-level investigation, a public apology from the government, and disciplinary action against the officials responsible for the lapse.
SAD has initiated the submission of memorandums at district headquarters across the state. Memorandums were presented in Ambala, Kurukshetra, and Yamunanagar on Friday, with the remaining districts to be covered starting Monday.
SAD Chief Expresses Outrage
SAD Haryana chief Harkesh Singh Mohri, who was among the pilgrims stopped at the border, stated, “Every year, Sikh community members from across the country visit religious sites in Pakistan on important occasions, but for the first time, pilgrims from Haryana were not allowed to cross over due to a government lapse. There was a delay in issuing notifications, yet the Haryana Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (HSGMC) completed the process on time, and visas for 94 pilgrims were issued. However, a verified list of pilgrims from Haryana was not sent to the concerned authorities, leading to the denial of entry.”
Mohri expressed support for HSGMC, noting that some individuals have been criticizing the committee, but it fulfilled its responsibilities in a timely manner.
Allegations of Conspiracy
“We suspect a conspiracy. Some dissenting members within HSGMC have been working for their vested interests and spreading misinformation. These members have misled the government, which is now hurting community sentiments by supporting such elements. The government must clarify its position,” Mohri added.
He further emphasized that the government must ensure all formalities for future pilgrimages are completed promptly to avoid hurting Sikh community sentiments. If pilgrims are forced to return from the border again, the community may launch an agitation.
SAD has demanded a high-level inquiry, accountability for officials, and an apology to the pilgrims who were turned back.
INLD and HSGMC Reactions
INLD spokesman Onkar Singh, present at the event, said, “The lapse by government officials has led to this situation. They have hurt community sentiments, and appropriate action should be taken.”
Meanwhile, HSGMC has formed a five-member committee to investigate and submit a report. The committee has also sent letters to Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressing displeasure over the incident.
HSGMC president Jagdish Singh Jhinda stated, “The pilgrims from Haryana faced humiliation. We have expressed our unhappiness and requested the government to ensure timely communication of the entire process to prevent such incidents. We also demand a fixed pilgrim quota for Haryana.”
