The corridor has remained suspended since the 2025 Pahalgam terror attack
The Centre has made it clear that the Sri Kartarpur Sahib Corridor will remain closed for now, citing the prevailing security situation despite repeated appeals from Sikh religious organisations and community groups seeking its early reopening.
The government informed Parliament on Friday that while it recognises the religious significance of the corridor for Sikh devotees, the current security environment does not permit the resumption of services.
Government cites prevailing security situation
Responding to a question in the Lok Sabha, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh said the government has received several representations from Sikh organisations, Members of Parliament and civil society groups requesting the reopening of the visa-free pilgrimage route.
However, he stated that the existing security concerns continue to necessitate the suspension of the corridor.
Corridor suspended after Pahalgam terror attack
The Kartarpur Sahib Corridor was suspended on May 7, 2025, in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack, as part of India’s broader security measures. The government said the prevailing situation has not yet improved sufficiently to allow the corridor to reopen.
Landmark agreement remains in force
The minister noted that India and Pakistan signed the Kartarpur Corridor Agreement on October 24, 2019, enabling Indian pilgrims to undertake visa-free visits to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan, one of Sikhism’s holiest shrines.
The agreement was subsequently extended for another five years in October 2024. However, operational services remain suspended due to security considerations.
Religious significance acknowledged
The government reiterated that it remains aware of the corridor’s immense religious and emotional importance for the Sikh community. At the same time, it stressed that national security considerations continue to guide decisions regarding its reopening.
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