Islamabad, The Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi has issued 104 visas to Indian Hindu pilgrims for their upcoming visit to Pakistan. These pilgrims are set to participate in the 315th Birth Anniversary Celebrations of Shiv Avtari Satguru Sant Shadaram Sahib at Shadani Darbar Hayat Pitafi in the Sindh province from December 12 to 23.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the visas were issued as part of the Pakistan-India Protocol on visits to religious shrines established in 1974. This agreement facilitates thousands of Sikh and Hindu pilgrims from India to attend various religious festivals in Pakistan each year. Aizaz Khan, Pakistan’s Charge d’ Affairs, extended warm wishes to the pilgrims for their safe journey.

The press release from the Pakistan High Commission highlighted the efforts of the Government of Pakistan in facilitating visits to religious shrines and promoting interfaith harmony. This gesture reflects Pakistan’s commitment to fostering peace and understanding between different religious communities.

In contrast, the press release noted the Narendra Modi-led Indian government’s restrictive approach, citing recent incidents where Pakistani journalists and spectators were denied visas to India. This included the inability to report on or attend ICC Cricket World Cup matches due to the denial of visas by the Indian regime.

The issuance of these visas by Pakistan signifies a positive step towards religious inclusivity and interfaith dialogue, despite the ongoing challenges in India-Pakistan relations.