Sikh Perspective on Pakistan’s Opening of Kartarpur Corridor for Pilgrims

The recent opening of the Kartarpur Corridor between Pakistan and India has sparked a wave of emotions and opinions among Sikhs worldwide. While many Sikh communities across the globe are welcoming the move, which aims to promote peace and religious freedom, there are significant concerns raised by Sikhs within India. In this detailed exploration, we will examine the views of Sikhs regarding the corridor from both a religious and a national perspective.

Global Reactions and Initial Hopes

The Kartarpur Corridor, which connects Dera Baba Nanak and Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara, was recently re-opened after a long hiatus. A majority of Sikhs across the globe have expressed their satisfaction with this initiative. The governments of India, Pakistan, and the Punjab State have been instrumental in making this happen, and they have expressed happiness over the opening of the corridor. However, the opening and closing nature of the corridor, which is influenced by political climates, remains a concern for many.

On the occasion of the 550th birth anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the spirit of the occasion was overshadowed by the acknowledgment of the ongoing issues. The historical places associated with Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji, including the Dera Baba Nanak and Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara, hold a special place in the hearts of Sikhs. Sikhs have always maintained a deep connection to these places, as evidenced by the numerous visits made by ancestors, even in the past.

Religious and Ideological Concerns of Sikhs

As a Sikh, I find the Kartarpur Corridor highly objectionable. While this may be seen as a positive step for a traveler without any faith, the circumstances surrounding the corridor make it a questionable venture for a Sikh. The primary issue lies with the monetary aspect of visiting the gurudwaras through the corridor.

India, which houses numerous historical gurudwaras, does not charge entrance fees to visitors. Even the most revered Harmandir Sahib, popularly known as the Golden Temple, is accessible without any fee. The idea of charging an entry fee, especially in a place of worship, goes against the core teachings of Sikhism. Vand Chakho, or sharing, is a fundamental concept that emphasizes equality and the welfare of all. Charging for visits to gurudwaras diminishes the spirit of this ethos.

Political and Historical Context

The decision to charge an entry fee, especially when it is applied to Pakistani citizens, raises significant concerns. The charges not only include a fee of $20 for Indians and Rs. 200 for Pakistanis but are levied despite the fact that both these groups are visiting their own national heritage. This is akin to turning a gurudwara into a commercial monument, like the Taj Mahal or City Palace, where visitors are charged heavily for entry.

Historically, religious sites have not been subjected to such fees in Sikh communities. The actions of the Pakistan establishment in imposing these charges are viewed with deep suspicion. The context of the 1971 Indo-Pak war and subsequent conflicts further highlight the concerns. The fact that the historical well at Kartarpur Sahib has a board that mentions an alleged bombing of the gurudwara during the war raises questions about the true intentions behind such statements. Sikhs who served in the Indian armed forces during these conflicts are unwilling to accept such narratives.

Conclusion and Reflection

The decision to open the Kartarpur Corridor is seen as a step towards fostering goodwill and religious harmony. However, the implementation of charges, perceived as commercial exploitation of a holy site, undermines the spirit of faith and shared heritage. As a Sikh and an Indian, my rejection of this corridor is rooted in a deep respect for the ideals that guide our faith and the principles enshrined in the teachings of Guru Nanak.

While the desire for peace and the opening of religious spaces is commendable, the manner in which such initiatives are implemented should reflect the true values of inclusivity, equality, and respect for all faiths. The Kartarpur Corridor, if not managed with these principles in mind, will remain marred by controversy and misunderstanding.