The Centre has allowed Sikh pilgrimage groups (jathas) to visit Pakistan for Guru Nanak Dev’s birth anniversary (Parkash Purb), reversing an earlier ban due to security concerns. While reviewing the September 12 restriction, the government acknowledged the pilgrimage’s religious and cultural importance. However, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) warned that security risks still exist and asked travelers to be very careful.

In a letter to chief secretaries, the MHA said this permission is only for this occasion and comes with strict rules including all applications must be sponsored by Sikh religious organisations, checked by intelligence agencies, and final lists must be sent to the MHA by October 22.

Travel will be allowed only for those who have a Pakistan visa and are recommended

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