Sikh shrines in state of neglect in Pakistan

Sikh pilgrims frequenting Pakistan have lamented that the Pakistan Sikh Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee has turned a "blind eye" to many historical gurudwaras in the country which are in a dilapidated condition.

"Only those gurudwaras are properly maintained that are frequently visited by Sikhs from across the world," local Sikhs, who have undertaken numerous pilgrimages to Pakistan, told PTI.

They point out that the PSGPC has shown interest in the development of gurudwaras like 'Janam Asthan' -- Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak, and others like Sacha Sauda, Panja Sahib (Hasanabdal), Dera Sahib (Lahore) and Rori Sahib (Gujjranwala).

The developments in these gurdwaras have included renovations of their structures, construction of inns with modern facilities for visiting devotees, construction of community kitchens, beautification of the surroundings, besides making security arrangements.

However, the PSGPC has ignored historical gurudwaras, the pilgrims said.

Among the historical gurudwaras that are being "grossly neglected" are Singh Singhnian, Janam Asthan Guru Ram Das, Bhai Taro Ji, Bal Leela, Pattee Sahib, Keyara Sahib, Maaljee Sahib, Sacha Sauda, Sach Khand, Tamboo Sahib, Chakkee Sahib, Bhai Lalo Di Khooyee, Nanak Garh and Chowbacha Sahib.

Several gurdwara buildings are either rapidly deteriorating or have already collapsed, they said.

There are as many as 172 historical Sikh shrines spread across Pakistan. The Pakistan government allows Indian Sikhs to visit only developed gurudwaras, the pilgrims said.

Asked about the condition of gurudwaras in Pakistan, PSGPC President Bishan Singh, who was here recently, admitted that many gurudwaras were in a state of neglect.

He said PSGPC wanted to maintain other gurudwaras also but there were no Sikh devotees in the areas.

Appreciating the role of Pakistan government, Singh said the government has released a grant of Rs 26 crore for the maintenance and expansion of gurudwaras.

He said Rs two crore has been spent on the construction of a community kitchen at Panja Sahib, whereas Rs 66 lakh was earmarked for outer flooring of Nankana Sahib.

The ongoing 'kar sewa' at Gurdwara Singh Singhnian (Lahore) and Janam Asthan Nankana Sahib and Gurdwara Tambu Sahib (Nankana Sahib) is being done on behalf of the UK-based delegation of Avtar Singh Sanghera and Baba Jagtar Singh (Tarn Taran), he said.