📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Unknown woodcut artist
Religion
Pakistani Sikh Pilgrims Urge Simplified Visa Process for India Visits
✍️ Amar Ujala · Amritsar
🗓 27 Oct 2026, 07:03 PM
👁 14
Pakistani Sikh pilgrims have called for a streamlined visa procedure to facilitate their religious trips to India, citing bureaucratic hurdles.
Amritsar, Punjab – A delegation of Sikh pilgrims from Pakistan gathered in Amritsar to press the Indian authorities for a more straightforward visa regime. The group highlighted that current procedures are cumbersome, often causing delays and limiting the number of devotees who can undertake pilgrimages to holy sites such as the Golden Temple.
Representatives from the Pakistani Sikh community said they have repeatedly faced long waiting periods, extensive documentation, and high fees, which deter many faithful from making the journey. They urged the Ministry of External Affairs to consider a dedicated, fast‑track channel for religious visas, similar to schemes already in place for other pilgrim groups.
The appeal comes amid broader calls for easing cross‑border religious travel between the two neighbours. While officials have not yet responded publicly, the pilgrims remain hopeful that their request will prompt a review of existing protocols, allowing smoother access for Sikh devotees from Pakistan.
Representatives from the Pakistani Sikh community said they have repeatedly faced long waiting periods, extensive documentation, and high fees, which deter many faithful from making the journey. They urged the Ministry of External Affairs to consider a dedicated, fast‑track channel for religious visas, similar to schemes already in place for other pilgrim groups.
The appeal comes amid broader calls for easing cross‑border religious travel between the two neighbours. While officials have not yet responded publicly, the pilgrims remain hopeful that their request will prompt a review of existing protocols, allowing smoother access for Sikh devotees from Pakistan.