Akal Takht for caution on religious processions in Pakistan

Amritsar, Nov 23 (UNI) Expressing concern at the prevailing conditions in Pakistan following the imposition of emergence, the Akal Takht has asked the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (PSGPC) to confine all religious activities on the occasion of 'Gurpurv' of Guru Nanak within the premises of Sikh shrines across the border.

" Taking into consideration the political instability and turmoil created in Pakistan following the imposition of an internal emergence,it would be advisable that the 'nagar kirtans' (religious processions) are confined to the premises of gurdwaras", a letter on the letter of the Akal Takht and addressed to the PSGPC chief Bishan Singh stated.

The letter signed by Takht Jathedar Joginder Singh Vidanti and faxed to the PSGPC headquarters at Dera Sahib near Lahore advised the PSGPC to confine the 'nagar kirtan' to be taken out today evening at Nanakana Sahib, the birthplace of Guru Nanak, to within the premises of Gurdwara Janam Asthan there. " Due to the political turmoil precautionary steps should be taken to avoid any unfortunate happenings", the letter stated.

The Jathedar sent his best wishes to the PSGPC and the Sikhs of Pakistan on the occasion.

A 3000-strong 'jatha' of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandik Committee (SGPC) is currently in Nankana Sahib to take part in the birth anninversary celebrations. A large number of Sikhs from other countries also reach the birthplace of Guru Nanak for the celebrations.

UNI