Satnam Singh Chahal, Executive Director of the North American Punjabi Association (NAPA), has issued a heartfelt appeal to the Government of India to immediately reopen the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor, which allows Sikh devotees to visit the revered Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, Pakistan—one of the holiest sites in Sikhism.
Chahal stated that while Pakistan has kept its side of the corridor open, allowing pilgrims from around the world to offer prayers and pay homage at this sacred place, the closure from the Indian side has left millions of Sikhs in India disheartened and spiritually deprived. He pointed out that this ongoing restriction is not only disappointing but also disrespectful to the sentiments and faith of the Sikh community.
“The Kartarpur Sahib Corridor was a historic achievement and a symbol of peace, unity, and religious tolerance,” Chahal said. “It is unfortunate that due to political or administrative delays, the spiritual journey of thousands of Sikhs from India is being blocked. We urge the Indian government to rise above politics and respond to the emotional and religious needs of the Sikh community.”
Chahal further emphasized that reopening the corridor would not only fulfill a long-standing religious demand but also strengthen people-to-people ties and promote cross-border harmony. “Kartarpur Sahib is not just a shrine; it is the heart of every Sikh. Denying access to such a sacred site hurts the very soul of the community,” he added.
The North American Punjabi Association expresses hope and confidence that the Indian government will take immediate action in this regard and ensure that the doors of Kartarpur Sahib are once again open to every Sikh in India who wishes to bow their head and seek spiritual peace at this holy place