Chandigarh (Gurpreet Singh): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has expressed his willingness to seek political clearance from the Government of India for a possible visit to Pakistan ahead of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Gurpurab, saying that any formal invitation would be followed by the necessary official procedures.
Speaking on the possibility of travelling to Pakistan for the occasion, Mann said the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) also organises jathas, or groups of pilgrims, to visit Sikh religious sites across the border. He indicated that if a formal invitation were received, he would approach the Centre for the required political clearance.
The Chief Minister’s remarks come as preparations and discussions surrounding the upcoming Gurpurab bring renewed attention to the religious and cultural links shared by communities on both sides of the India-Pakistan border.
Family Connections Shape Chief Minister’s Sentiments
During his remarks, Mann referred to his own family history to explain his emotional connection with Pakistan. He said his maternal grandparents had migrated from Pakistan, while his in-laws also had roots in the country.
Highlighting these personal ties, the Chief Minister noted that the region carries memories and connections for many families whose histories extend across the border.
His comments reflected the lasting impact of Partition, which displaced millions of people and left families separated between India and Pakistan. For many Punjabis, these connections remain closely linked to ancestral homes, cultural traditions and shared heritage.
Mann Calls for Better Relations Between India and Pakistan
The Punjab Chief Minister also spoke about the desire for peace and harmony among people in both countries. Referring to transport links that operated in the past, he cited the Samjhauta Express and the Delhi-Lahore bus service as examples of efforts to maintain contact across the border.
He suggested that relations between the neighbouring countries should improve, pointing to the importance of people-to-people connections alongside diplomatic engagement.
Cross-border movement has particular significance for the Sikh community, given the location of several important Sikh religious sites in Pakistan, including Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
Political Clearance Would Be Required
Mann made it clear that a formal invitation would be an important step before he sought permission from the Government of India. Any proposed visit would remain subject to the applicable approval process.
His statement has brought the question of religious travel and bilateral relations into focus ahead of Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Gurpurab. The occasion draws Sikh devotees from across India and abroad, with many seeking opportunities to visit historic gurdwaras associated with the founder of Sikhism.
Whether a formal invitation is received and the Centre grants the necessary clearance will determine the possibility of the Chief Minister’s proposed visit.
For now, Mann’s remarks underline the continuing importance of Sikh pilgrimage, shared Punjabi heritage and the hope for more peaceful relations between India and Pakistan.
Editorial note: This report is based on the statement provided. The precise date, venue and context of the Chief Minister’s remarks should be independently verified before publication.
