Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Wagah Crossing Reopens for Sikh Pilgrims After May Conflict as Some Hindu Devotees Are Turned Back

Lower-than-approved turnout signals a controlled reopening under lingering restrictions.

Overview

  • Pakistan says it issued more than 2,100 visas, but roughly 1,800–1,900 Indian Sikhs actually crossed for Guru Nanak’s 10-day birth-anniversary events, the first major civilian movement since May.
  • Authorities in Pakistan reopened the WagahAttari land route for the pilgrimage and arranged transport, medical teams and what they described as foolproof security to Nankana Sahib and other shrines.
  • Multiple outlets report that 12–14 Hindu pilgrims who crossed with the Sikh jatha were denied further entry by Pakistani officials and sent back, drawing complaints from Indian side representatives and the travellers.
  • Indian organizers and officials said about 300 applicants, including some with visas, were stopped on the Indian side for lacking Union Home Ministry clearance required under current rules.
  • The Kartarpur Corridor remains closed since the May hostilities, so the visa-free route was not used even as the itinerary in Pakistan includes a visit to the Kartarpur shrine; the group is due to return on November 13.