Sikh Devotees in Gurdaspur Renew Demand for Kartarpur Corridor Reopening After 25-Year Campaign
In a significant religious gathering, members of the Kartarpur Sahib Ravi Darshan Abhilashi Sanstha assembled at Dera Baba Nanak on Thursday to offer ardas (prayers) for the immediate reopening of the Kartarpur Corridor. This marks twenty-five years since the organization first raised this demand, highlighting the prolonged struggle for pilgrim access to one of Sikhism's most sacred sites.
Historical Context and Current Plea
The Kartarpur Corridor, which enabled day-long visa-free travel for Indian devotees to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur located approximately 4.5 kilometres inside Pakistan from the international border, was suspended shortly after the launch of Operation Sindoor in May 2025. The government halted the pilgrimage at that time, citing pressing security concerns that necessitated the closure.
Sanstha president Gurpartap Singh Wadala emphasized the profound impact of this closure, stating, "Due to its shutdown, lakhs of Sikh devotees are unable to fulfil their religious aspirations and connect with their spiritual heritage." The volunteers gathered near the international border, passionately urging authorities to restore access, underscoring the corridor's critical role in facilitating religious observance.
Rationale and Changing Circumstances
While acknowledging the government's initial decision during Operation Sindoor was made in the interest of public safety, Wadala argued that the situation has since stabilized. "We understand that the government acted prudently during that volatile period, but circumstances have evolved. The sentiments and religious needs of the Sikh community must now be given due consideration," he added.
The Sanstha has been actively campaigning for the corridor's reopening for nearly two and a half decades, regularly holding prayers at the ‘darshan sthal' established along the international border at Dera Baba Nanak. This persistent effort reflects the deep-seated desire within the community to maintain access to this holy site.
Government Initiatives and Future Steps
Notably, the Union Cabinet passed a resolution on November 22, 2018, to commemorate the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev in a grand manner, which included approval for the development of the Kartarpur Corridor. Following this, the Integrated Check Post at Dera Baba Nanak was inaugurated on November 9, 2019, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, facilitating smooth, year-round access for pilgrims until its suspension.
Looking ahead, Wadala revealed that the Sanstha has decided to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah to apprise him of the community's concerns. Additionally, they plan to urge the government to consider allowing pilgrims to stay overnight at Kartarpur Sahib, which would enhance the spiritual experience for devotees. This meeting aims to bridge the gap between security protocols and religious freedoms, seeking a balanced solution that honors both aspects.
The gathering at Dera Baba Nanak serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for religious access and the importance of dialogue in resolving such issues. As the Sanstha continues its decades-long campaign, the hope remains that the Kartarpur Corridor will soon reopen, allowing Sikh devotees to once again visit their sacred shrine without hindrance.
