SAMAJ WEEKLY UK
Bal Ram Sampla
Geopolitics
The recent demolition of a 125-year-old Gurdwara in Pakistan’s Punjab province has caused great sadness and anger to the Sikh community. The destruction of this historic building, called Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib, happened on June 24, 2026.
Reports show that a local businessman allegedly tore down parts of the Gurdwara. He did this to clear the land for his own use without government permission. This act deeply hurt the local Sikh community, who immediately started protests to demand justice.
This Gurdwara is not just a building; it is a vital piece of history. Built over a century ago, it was a central hub for the Singh Sabha Movement, which helped protect and revive Sikh culture and identity. When India was divided in 1947, most Sikhs moved away from this area, leaving the building empty. Over the decades, local families moved into the surrounding area, and parts of the building became neglected. This lack of protection made it an easy target for people trying to illegally take over valuable land.
The incident has also created tension between the governments of India and Pakistan. India strongly condemned the act, calling it a targeted attack on a religious minority site, and asked Pakistan to protect these holy places. In response, Pakistani officials visited the site, stopped all construction, and promised that the government would completely rebuild and restore the Gurdwara.
This sad event reminds us how important it is to protect historical and religious sites. Holy places belong to everyone’s history, and governments must work hard to protect them so that different communities can live together in peace and respect.
Reference
1.https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/deplorable-not-isolated-india-condemns-demolition-of-125-year-gurdwara-in-pakistans-farooqabad-101782915583009.html?hl=en
2.https://www.indiatoday.in/amp/world/story/pakistan-gurdwara-demolition-farooqabad-punjab-restoration-sikh-protests-ptag-2938616-2026-07-01?hl=en
