Despite ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan after the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam, the Kartarpur Corridor continues to open, allowing pilgrims to visit the holy Gurudwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan. The visa-free corridor, launched in 2019 interlinks Dera Baba Nanak in Punjab’s Gurdaspur to the Gurudwara in Kartarpur, the final resting place of Guru Nank Dev, the founder of Sikhism.
The diplomatic fallout is escalating as India has suspended several bilateral deals and has shut the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attari. However, the Kartarpur passage continues to be operational, reflecting the spiritual connection between the two countries.
Pilgrims condemn Pahalgam terror attack
While speaking to ANI, a devotee on his way to Kartarpur Sahib criticised the April 22 terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam where 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen were killed. ”What happened was really wrong…I am going to Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara to pay homage. They targeted the Hindu brothers to spread hatred. Once the terrorists are held, everything will become clear,” he stated.
Despite the emotional condition, many pilgrims have chosen to continue their visit to Kartarpur, highlighting faith over fear. In the aftermath of the attack, India has taken a series of measures to put diplomatic pressure on Pakistan. These include suspending the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme for Pakistani nationals and has allotted them 40 hours to leave the country. Moreover, both the countries have also reduced the number of diplomatic staff in High Commissions. India has also suspended the Indus Water Treaty. The agreement was made with the support of the World Bank. According to the deal, 80% of the Indus River system was allocated to Pakistan and 20% was given to India. As per present status, Kartarpur Corridor continues to be one of the few operational links between the two countries.
(With inputs from ANI)