Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh
In a disturbing incident from Pakistan’s Punjab province, the demolition of historic gurdwaras continues unabated, triggering anger and concern among the Sikh community worldwide.
On Friday (June 26), in Farooqabad (Mandi Churkana), land mafias allegedly collaborated with local authorities to demolish a portion of the 125-year-old historic Singh Sabha Gurdwara. The act has drawn sharp criticism from Sikh organizations and activists.
Following strong protests by the Sikh community, the demolition work was halted and the site was subsequently sealed by the administration, banning any further construction or destruction activities.
Local historians and Sikh activists claim that until about four years ago, the gurdwara retained its original historical identity and ancient heritage structures. Videos of the site had also circulated on social media, highlighting its cultural significance. However, shortly after, the main dome of the gurdwara was reportedly demolished by encroachers.
Sikhs allege that despite repeated complaints and objections filed with the police at the time, neither the Evacuee Trust Property Board nor the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee took effective steps to protect the historic site, leading to continued damage to the religious heritage structure.
