Amritsar, 05 April (H.S.): The schedule for the jatha travelling to Pakistan to pay obeisance at gurdwaras on the occasion of Khalsa Sajna Divas has been revised. The Chief Secretary of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, Kulwant Singh Mannan, stated that the jatha, which was earlier scheduled to depart on April 12, will now leave on April 10 and return on April 19.

He further informed that the SGPC has submitted 1,860 passports for visa processing, and approximately 1,800 devotees receive visas. There is considerable enthusiasm among the Sikh community to visit the historic gurdwaras in Pakistan that remained there after the 1947 Partition.

Clarifying rumours regarding restrictions on solo women travellers, Mannan stated that no such decision has been taken by the SGPC. He emphasized that all devotees are free to undertake the pilgrimage without any restriction.

However, he advised that women may prefer to travel with a family member or companion for added convenience and safety. He also noted that travelling as part of a group ensures better coordination, mutual support, and security during the journey. The SGPC reiterated that its primary objective is to ensure arrangements and the well-being of all pilgrims, enabling them to complete their spiritual journey in a safe and comfortable manner.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH