Fawad Chaudhry
The Radcliffe Line divided Punjab—it did not divide us.
As a Punjabi from this side of Punjab, I stand with the Sikh community living across that line. Respecting your faith is no favor to us; it is our duty.
The news that the congregation, led by the Jathedar of Sri Akal Takht Sahib, was stopped from going to perform Ardas is heartbreaking. The congregation wanted to go to offer Rumala Sahib and pray for the corridor to be opened. A sentiment like this should be met not with barriers, but with respect and dialogue.
The bond between Sikhs and Sri Kartarpur Sahib is not beholden to the benevolence of governments. It is a bond of faith between the congregation and the Guru. Do not sacrifice it to the political tug-of-war between the two countries.
My clear appeal to the governments of India and Pakistan: Sit together to arrange necessary security measures, reopen the corridor to Sri Kartarpur Sahib, and pave a firm and dignified path for the congregation’s darshan.
Sikh sisters and brothers living beyond the border—for your religious rights and dignity, I will always amplify your voice.
