Pakistan issues visas to more than 6,500 Indian pilgrims for Baisakhi festivities

For the first time, Pakistan is set to welcome more than 6,500 Sikh pilgrims from around the world for the Baisakhi festival, with a large number of Indian pilgrims having already arrived at the Wagah border to perform their religious rituals.

According to reports, out of the 7,000 visas allocated, Pakistan issued more than 6,000 to Indian Sikh pilgrims for the Baisakhi festival 2025, which was more than double the usual quota, marking an unprecedented move in the past 50 years. 

Alongside representatives of the Punjab government, the Evacuee Trust Property Board’s (ETPB) officials would welcome pilgrims at the Wahga border. 

Jatha Leader Ravinder Singh stated that Pakistan's initiative of issuing a large number of visas to Sikh pilgrims won hearts. 

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The record visa provision reaffirms Pakistan’s commitment to religious freedom and the move showcases the dedication of the country towards interfaith diplomacy amidst political uncertainty in the region.  

To ensure security during the festival, police, rangers and Law Enforcement Agencies would provide them security during the festival, as the said authorities already made a plan. 

On arrival, pilgrims will be welcomed with bouquets by students and to help them cope with the heat, refreshments like ispaghol, Rooh Afza, and other cooling drinks are being served.

Additional Secretary Shrines Saifullah Khokhar stated that they made sublime arrangements for Sikh pilgrims to stay in Pakistan. They will be provided langar (meal), transport, and medical facilities as well.

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He said at least 3,751 visas were specially issued beyond the original schedule at the request of the Federal Ministry of Religious Affairs and the Evacuee Waqf Properties Board.

The ETPB spokesperson said pilgrims from Amritsar, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and 11 other Indian states will arrive in Pakistan. 

To accommodate the increased number of guests, representatives were divided into two groups to ensure all pilgrims receive a warm welcome.

Following the arrival, in Pakistan after crossing Wahgah border, the first group of pilgrims  will be taken to Grudwara Panja Sahib in Hasan Abdal, while second group will head to Darbar Sahib.