Visa-Free Bliss For Sikhs In Pakistan: No Fees, Just Shrine Service Charges – OpEd

In a historic move, Pakistan has opened the Kartarpur corridor, a visa-free passage that allows Sikh pilgrims from India to visit the revered Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur, one of the holiest sites in Sikhism. This ground-breaking initiative demonstrates Pakistan's commitment to religious harmony and its dedication to facilitating the pilgrimage of Sikh devotees.

The construction of the Kartarpur corridor has significantly eased the journey for Sikh pilgrims from India to visit the shrine. The visa-free access and the operational convenience of visiting the shrine seven days a week from dawn to dusk reflect Pakistan's commitment to providing a conducive environment for pilgrims. The rapid completion of the project within a year showcases Pakistan's efficient infrastructure development, including the construction of roads, bridges, reception centres, and a complex around the shrine.

Pakistan's decision to charge a nominal service fee of $20 to each visitor is reasonable and ensures the sustainability of the facilities provided at the shrine. This fee is significantly lower compared to the expenses incurred by pilgrims travelling to other religious sites worldwide. This agreement was solidified in the Bilateral Agreement dated October 24, 2019, between the governments of Pakistan and India.

Despite the Indian government's significant crackdown on Kashmiris and unilateral changes to the status of Kashmir, in violation of UN resolutions and bilateral agreements, Pakistan has continued to extend cooperation to the Sikh community. The Kartarpur corridor stands as a symbol of Pakistan's willingness to engage in positive interactions with India.

The attempts by the Indian government to downplay Pakistan's sincere efforts and portray them as strategically motivated are baseless and misleading. The Indian government, led by the BJP, remains fixated on trivial matters like the $20 service charge and the presence of the US consulate in Amritsar. This deliberate diversion overlooks the genuine economic hardships, farmer demands, and job scarcity plaguing Punjab. The BJP's neglect of these pressing issues reflects a disconnect with the people, particularly the youth of Punjab, who reject the BJP.

Pakistan's construction of the Kartarpur corridor is a testament to its commitment to religious harmony and its desire to build bridges between communities. By facilitating the pilgrimage of Sikh devotees, Pakistan has demonstrated its respect for religious diversity and its willingness to engage in constructive dialogue.

The Kartarpur corridor has the potential to serve as a model for other countries in the region, showcasing how religious sites can be shared and accessed by people of different faiths. It is a shining example of how religious tolerance and understanding can lead to greater cooperation and peace between nations.

However, it is crucial to note that the success of the Kartarpur corridor project depends on the continued cooperation and support of both India and Pakistan. Any attempts to politicize the issue or use it as a bargaining chip in larger geopolitical disputes will only serve to undermine the progress made so far.

In conclusion, Pakistan's Kartarpur Corridor initiative is a remarkable achievement that deserves recognition and praise. It is a testament to the country's commitment to religious harmony and its willingness to engage in positive interactions with its neighbours. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, it is essential that countries work together to promote understanding and respect for different faiths and cultures. The Kartarpur corridor is a shining example of how this can be achieved, and it is our hope that it will inspire others to follow in Pakistan's footsteps.

This initiative not only promotes religious harmony but also opens doors for potential diplomatic engagements between India and Pakistan. In a region fraught with historical tensions and political discord, the Kartarpur corridor stands out as a beacon of hope and cooperation. By providing a peaceful means for Sikhs to perform their religious duties, Pakistan is fostering a sense of goodwill and paving the way for future collaborations that can transcend beyond religious boundaries into broader socio-political spheres.

The Kartarpur corridor exemplifies how strategic infrastructure projects can play a pivotal role in bridging gaps between communities and nations. Its successful implementation and operationalization could encourage other countries with shared religious or cultural sites to consider similar initiatives. The ultimate goal should be to foster an environment where cultural and religious exchange can thrive, promoting mutual respect and understanding among diverse populations.

By continuing to support such initiatives, countries can move towards a more harmonious and peaceful world where differences are celebrated rather than condemned. The Kartarpur corridor is a step in the right direction, setting a precedent for how collaborative efforts can yield significant benefits in the realm of international relations and beyond.