In a significant step towards fostering religious tourism and community ties, India and Pakistan have renewed the agreement for the Kartarpur Corridor, allowing Indian pilgrims to visit the revered Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, Pakistan, for another five years! 🙌✨
🗓️ Key Highlights:
- Renewal Date: October 22, 2024
- Duration: Extended until 2029
- Purpose: To facilitate Indian pilgrims visiting the holy site, where Sikh founder Guru Nanak spent his final days.
🤝 Historical Context:
- The Kartarpur Corridor was originally proposed as a Confidence Building Measure during former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan’s tenure.
- The corridor’s operation is crucial for maintaining connections between the Sikh community and their spiritual heritage, despite the turbulent relations between the two nations.
🗣️ Statements from Officials:
- External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted the Indian government’s commitment to facilitating Sikh access to their holy sites, stating, “We will continue to support our Sikh community.”
- However, India reiterated its request for Pakistan to waive the $20 service fee imposed on each pilgrim.
💰 Pakistan’s Position:
- Pakistan has defended the fee, citing the $17 million spent on refurbishing the Gurudwara, constructing the access road and bridge, and arranging transportation for pilgrims.
📉 Pilgrim Numbers:
- Despite the potential for 5,000 pilgrims daily, current visitation numbers have dwindled to just a few hundred, causing disappointment among Pakistani officials regarding the low turnout.
The renewal of the Kartarpur Corridor agreement marks a positive stride in enhancing religious ties, allowing Sikhs to connect with their heritage while underscoring the ongoing challenges in diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan. Stay tuned for more updates! 🕌🌟