Pakistan approved 100 per cent of Baisakhi Visas this year, issuing 6,629 visas to Indian Sikh pilgrims – more than double the usual quota. In a historic move not seen in 50 years, this decision by the government of Pakistan enabled Sikh pilgrims, commonly known as yatrees, to visit sacred sites like Nankana Sahib.
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This is a significant milestone in cross-border religious exchange and also contributes to the positive narratives for international electronic media with Pakistan setting a new standard for interfaith diplomacy.
This gesture also reaffirms Pakistan’s dedication to religious freedom, ensuring unparalleled access to sites like Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak, after five decades of restricted access.
Amid continued political tensions, Pakistan’s facilitation of a large number of yatrees showcases how faith can bridge cultural divides. The decision to grant record visas has garnered global acclaim and highlights the power of heritage and hospitality to surpass political boundaries. This gesture shines particularly against the backdrop of India’s increasingly restrictive visa policies for religious minorities.
The expansion of the pilgrimage visa quota from 3,000 to 6,629 visas has led to massive goodwill for Pakistan, in Indian Punjab – where Sikh communities are celebrating this as a historic diplomatic step. Pakistan’s gesture stands in sharp contrast to India’s restrictive visa regimes, symbolizing a win for people-to-people diplomacy and the deepening connection between the Sikh community and their spiritual heritage in Pakistan.
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In a region often marked by tension, Pakistan’s compassionate outreach to Sikh pilgrims stands as a beacon of spiritual diplomacy. As India tightens its visa policies, Pakistan’s record visa issuance not only facilitates cultural exchange but also provides a poignant example of how compassion can rewrite regional narratives.