Kartarpur Corridor
In a recent weekly press briefing, Arindam Bagchi, the spokesperson for the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, hinted at the potential closure of the Kartarpur Corridor—a religious passage connecting Pakistan and India.
Bagchi emphasized India’s persistent demand for the discontinuation of the $20 fee and the mandatory passport requirement for individuals seeking access to the corridor. Despite consistent communication of concerns with Pakistan on this matter, there has been no response.
The Kartarpur Corridor, inaugurated by former Prime Minister Imran Khan on November 9, celebrated its fourth anniversary. Initially designed to accommodate up to 5,000 daily pilgrims, the actual turnout has been significantly lower, averaging around 200.
The corridor holds immense significance for the Sikh community, housing the Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara—a revered site where Baba Guru Nanak spent the last 18 years of his life.
Tensions with the Sikh community have escalated, particularly following the killing of community leader Hardeep Singh Nijar in Canada. This incident triggered a diplomatic dispute between India and Canada, leading to the expulsion of a Canadian diplomat by India in September.
Recent statements also suggest a strained relationship between the two nations, with India expressing concerns about “continued interference” by Canadian personnel in its internal affairs.
As India contemplates the potential closure of the Kartarpur Corridor, the situation underscores the complex web of diplomatic challenges arising from religious, political, and bilateral dynamics, impacting the access and connectivity between these two neighboring nations.
The Kartarpur Corridor, initially envisioned as a symbol of religious harmony and cooperation, now stands at the intersection of geopolitical tensions, religious sensitivities, and diplomatic complexities. The evolving scenario poses challenges for the management of religious pilgrimages and cross-border relations, reflecting the broader intricacies of the India-Pakistan dynamic.
