In a major development, Pakistan PM Imran Khan on Friday announced some concessions for Indian pilgrims going to Darbar Sahib gurdwara at Kartarpur in Pakistan’s Punjab where Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, spent the last years of his life. This announcement comes as a big relief for pilgrims visiting the shrine.
Announcing the waiver in his tweeter handle Khan said “For Sikhs coming for pilgrimage to Kartarpur from India, I’ve waived off 2 requirements: they won’t need a passport-just a valid ID; ii)they no longer have to register 10 days in advance. Also,no fee to be charged on day of inauguration&on Guruji’s 550th birthday.”.
India and Pakistan have already signed an agreement for Kartarpur corridor that will connect Darbar Sahib with Dera Baba Nanak shrine in Gurdaspur district of Punjab. Keeping the sentiments of Sikh pilgrims in mind, Pakistan said that passports will not be required to visit the holy shrine. Previously, although the agreement sought to visa-free access, it was mandatory for visitors to carry their passports.
Earlier,Pakistan was also adamant on levying a $20 service fee on the pilgrims visiting Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara, in spite of India reiterating its request that it is not in the interest of pilgrims. Now with this official announcement , on the inauguration day and on the occasion of Guru Nanak’s 550th birth anniversary, the fee will be waived off.
