TAXILA: Although the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) has imposed a ban on large religious gatherings due to the spike in Covid-19 positive cases, authorities said that Sikh pilgrims from India will visit Gurdwara Punja Sahib Hassanabdal, as per routine to observe the Baisakhi festival.

Talking to Dawn, Shrines Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) Deputy Secretary Imran Gondal refuted the news that the festival had been cancelled. “However, strict implementation of standard operating Procedure (SOP) would be ensured during their travel, lodging and religious activities,” he added.

He said the ETPB in collaboration with all stakeholders especially Gurdwara Parbandhak committeewill ensure that SOPs are observed during their stay in Pakistan to curb spread of the virus.

Responding to a question, Mr Gondal said the local Sikh and Hindu communities including those from Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will not be allowed to participate in rituals connected to the festival.

It will be the first time that local pilgrims are not being allowed to participate in the events related to Baisakhi due to the spread of Covid-19.

Published in Dawn, April 6th, 2021