Over 600 Indian Sikh pilgrims arrive in Pakistan for Guru Arjan Dev Ji's death anniversary 

Lahore (Web Desk): Over 600 Sikh pilgrims from India arrived in Pakistan via the Wagah Border to participate in the ceremonies marking the death anniversary (Jor Mela) of the fifth Sikh Guru, Guru Arjan Dev Ji.

The visit is being facilitated and coordinated by the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) under the supervision of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony.

On arrival at Wagah, the pilgrims were given a warm reception by Punjab Minister for Minority Affairs Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora and Additional Secretary Shrines Nasir Mushtaq. Officials from the ETPB ensured smooth immigration processing and full logistical support for the visiting group.

The delegation is being led by Jatha leader Sardar Parmjit Singh Chandhok and also includes members of the Delhi Gurdwara Management Committee along with representatives of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, whose president is also part of the group.

According to Additional Secretary Shrines Nasir Mushtaq, arrangements were made on the instructions of ETPB Chairman Qamar-uz-Zaman to facilitate the pilgrims throughout their stay. These arrangements include langar services, medical assistance, immigration facilitation, and continuous support from ETPB staff at key locations.

The Sikh pilgrims will stay in Pakistan for about ten days, during which they are scheduled to visit several holy sites including Gurdwara Janam Asthan, Gurdwara Panja Sahib, and Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur.

After completing immigration procedures at Wagah, the group was escorted under tight security to Nankana Sahib. The main Jor Mela ceremony will take place on June 16 at Gurdwara Dera Sahib.

Officials said Pakistan is ensuring a peaceful, secure, and well-managed environment for all visiting pilgrims.

Medical camps, ambulances, and emergency healthcare services have also been deployed along the route to support the visitors.

ETPB Chairman Qamar-uz-Zaman reiterated that all available resources are being utilized to provide a respectful and comfortable stay for the pilgrims, adding that the government remains committed to promoting religious tourism and safeguarding the heritage sites of minority communities.