Mohsin Naqvi, US lawmakers mark Baisakhi at Kartarpur

NAROWAL: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Monday welcomed a delegation of US Congress members to the Kartarpur Corridor, where they joined Sikh pilgrims from across the region in celebrating the Baisakhi festival — one of the most significant occasions in the Sikh religious calendar.

The American delegation included US Congressmen Thomas Suozzi and Jonathan Jackson, along with Acting US Ambassador to Pakistan Natalie Baker and US Consul General Kristen K. Hawkins.

Upon arrival at Darshan Deori, the visitors were greeted warmly by prominent members of the Sikh community.

Naqvi and the visiting dignitaries toured the historic Gurdwara Darbar Sahib and were briefed on its religious and cultural significance. The delegation also visited key areas of the complex, including the prayer hall, the langar (community kitchen), and a historic well associated with Baba Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism.

In a symbolic gesture of goodwill, the visitors were presented with traditional Sikh honours — the Saropa (robe of honour) and Kirpan (ceremonial dagger).

They also joined Sikh pilgrims for a communal meal in the langar (dinner) hall, with many taking photographs and engaging warmly with visitors from India.

Congressman Suozzi expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the festivities, saying it was a meaningful experience to celebrate Baisakhi with the global Sikh community.

Congressman Jackson commended Pakistan for the “excellent arrangements” made for pilgrims at Kartarpur, praising the upkeep of the Gurdwara Sahib and the facilities provided to visitors.

Interior Minister Naqvi reiterated the government’s commitment to promoting religious harmony and facilitating pilgrimages. “Providing the best facilities to Sikh pilgrims is our top priority,” he said, adding that Pakistan had taken steps to simplify visa procedures to encourage more Sikh visitors to their holy sites.

He emphasised Pakistan’s longstanding tradition of religious tolerance. “Pakistan is a peaceful nation, and we respect followers of all faiths. Every religion is treated with dignity here.”

The delegation concluded their visit at the Zero Point near the India-Pakistan border, where they observed the symbolic crossing route used by Sikh pilgrims travelling from India.