newspop
New delhi :Pakistan has announced the restoration of the 125-year-old Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Farooqabad after reports of its demolition triggered protests from the Sikh community and drew sharp criticism from India.
The issue quickly escalated into a diplomatic flashpoint, with India calling the demolition a “highly deplorable and targeted act of vandalism.” The Ministry of External Affairs urged Islamabad to conduct a swift investigation, punish those responsible, restore the damaged shrine, and ensure the protection of religious minorities and their places of worship.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stressed that safeguarding minority religious sites is Pakistan’s responsibility and called for immediate action.
Following outrage over the incident, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz ordered an inquiry. Punjab Minister for Minorities Ramesh Singh Arora visited the site with district officials and announced that restoration work would begin immediately.
Authorities have also been directed to investigate the ownership and legal status of the land. Initial findings reportedly indicate that the property was not registered under the Auqaf Department, with officials expected to submit a detailed fact-finding report before any further legal action.
The demolition sparked protests among local Sikhs, who described the gurdwara as a vital part of their religious and cultural heritage. Community leaders demanded accountability and a complete restoration of the historic shrine. Government representatives assured them that restoration would proceed alongside the ongoing investigation.
Meanwhile, some local traders and residents expressed concerns that the site had remained unused for decades and had gradually become home to families and businesses. They appealed to the government to provide rehabilitation or compensation if restoration efforts affect their homes or livelihoods. No decision on relocation has been announced so far.
The controversy has attracted international attention as it raises broader questions about the protection of religious heritage and minority rights. While Pakistan’s decision to restore the gurdwara may ease immediate tensions, the findings of the official inquiry and any action against those responsible will be closely watched by both countries and the Sikh community worldwide.
