NEW DELHI: In a major escalation following its missile strikes on Pakistan, India has closed the Kartarpur Corridor, preventing Sikh pilgrims from entering the sacred site, Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, as reported by Indian media on Wednesday.
The move follows India’s overnight missile attacks on over 20 sites across six Pakistani cities between Tuesday and Wednesday, which, according to official sources, resulted in the martyrdom of nearly 30 civilians and left more than 45 injured.
In retaliation, Pakistan shot down five Indian fighter jets—including Rafales—and destroyed seven drones, according to military officials.
Indian media reported that the Modi government has suspended operations at the Kartarpur Corridor indefinitely, halting all cross-border religious visits. Sikh pilgrims were reportedly denied entry into the corridor, which serves as a vital link between Indian Sikh devotees and the sacred site in Narowal, Pakistan.
This development comes despite Pakistan having earlier spared Sikh pilgrims from its wider diplomatic measures—such as expelling Indian nationals—following India’s expulsion of Pakistanis in the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack.
The suspension of the Kartarpur Corridor, a long-standing symbol of interfaith harmony and diplomatic goodwill, is expected to spark concern and condemnation from Sikh communities globally, particularly due to its previously apolitical status.
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