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LAHORE, Jun 29 (APP):The 186th death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh was observed with reverence and interfaith harmony at Gurdwara Dera Sahib here on Sunday.
The central ceremony, jointly organized by the Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) and Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC), was attended by ETPB Chairman Dr Sajjad Mehmood Chauhan, Additional Secretary Shrines Saifullah Khokhar, former PSGPC President Sardar Bishan Singh and members of the local Sikh community.
Talking on the occasion, ETPB Chairman Dr Sajjad Mehmood Chauhan paid tribute to Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s legacy of justice, religious tolerance, and communal harmony. He highlighted the Maharaja’s commitment to protecting places of worship for all faiths, which remains a guiding principle for the Board.
The ETPB Chairman strongly condemned India’s denial of travel permission to Sikh pilgrims wishing to visit Pakistan for the event. “This is a deeply regrettable act,” Dr. Chohan stated, adding that Pakistan, in contrast, remains steadfast in safeguarding the religious and cultural heritage of all minorities.
He informed the participants that extensive renovations had been carried out at Gurdwara Dera Sahib, Gurdwara Nankana Sahib, and Gurdwara Panja Sahib.
“We have ensured the provision of modern lodging, langar halls, medical services, and comprehensive security for Sikh pilgrims,” he said.
Dr Sajjad Mehmood Chauhan added that scholarships were being awarded to local Sikh youth to promote education and community development. “We are not just preserving buildings, we are strengthening bonds with minority communities,” he remarked. He said that promoting religious freedom and preserving cultural identity remain top priorities of the ETPB. “Pakistan consistently sends a message of peace and brotherhood to the world,” he added.
Additional Secretary Shrines Saifullah Khokhar addressing the gathering, said that today’s event was a reminder of Maharaja Ranjit Singh’s enduring message of interfaith unity. “We are always prepared to welcome Sikh pilgrims from across the globe, including India,” he noted.
Sikh leaders, including former PSGPC President Sardar Bishan Singh, expressed sorrow over the Indian government’s refusal to allow pilgrims to travel to Pakistan.
“The global Sikh community is deeply disappointed by this decision,” said Bishan Singh, adding that “Pakistan has always ensured the safety and dignity of its Sikh and other minority communities.”
The event was widely attended by Sikh devotees and dignitaries, who paid homage to Maharaja Ranjit Singh and appreciated Pakistan’s inclusive policies and hospitality.