India Condemns Damage to Historic Gurdwara in Pakistan, Demands Swift Action

New Delhi, July 2, 2026 India has strongly criticised the reported damage to a 125-year-old historic Gurdwara in Pakistan, describing the incident as another troubling example of attacks targeting minority communities and their places of worship. Referring to reports that a portion of Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Faisalabad was demolished, New Delhi urged the Pakistani government to ensure accountability, protect religious heritage, and take prompt corrective measures. Responding to media queries, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "We strongly condemn this reprehensible and deliberate act of vandalism against this revered place of worship of the Sikh community. Reports of its demolition, coupled with the apparent lack of firm action by the local authorities or the Evacuee Trust Property Board, are a matter of grave concern." He further noted that this was not an isolated incident, adding that religious minorities and their places of worship have repeatedly come under attack in Pakistan. Calling for a thorough investigation and strict action against those responsible, Jaiswal said, "We urge the Government of Pakistan to investigate this matter expeditiously, bring the perpetrators of this deplorable act to justice, and undertake immediate reconstruction and restoration of the damaged portions of the Gurdwara Sahib. We also call upon Pakistan to fulfil its responsibility of safeguarding the rights, safety, and welfare of its minority communities, protect their religious institutions, and take effective measures to end the climate of communal violence and religious intolerance prevailing in the country." Meanwhile, Punjab Province's Minister for Minority Affairs, Ramesh Singh Arora, visited the Gurdwara in Faisalabad and spoke about its reconstruction. He said Punjab Chief Minister Maryam had made it clear that the government remains committed to protecting the fundamental rights of minority communities and ensuring the safety of their places of worship. The development comes as members of the Sikh community in the province continue to protest over the reported damage, keeping attention focused on the need for accountability and preservation of religious heritage.