Report by Syed Farzand Ali
SHEIKHUPURA: Religious leaders representing various faiths and Islamic schools of thought in Pakistan have rejected claims circulating in Indian media and on social media that a historic Sikh Dharamshala in Farooqabad, Sheikhupura, was demolished or illegally occupied, saying the reports are inaccurate and that restoration work has officially begun.
According to members of the interfaith delegation, the building remains in its original historical status, and only a deteriorated section of an old wall had collapsed, making restoration and conservation work necessary.
Interfaith Delegation Visits Historic Site
A delegation led by Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi, Coordinator of Pakistan’s National Peace Committee and Chairman of the Pakistan Ulema Council, visited the site alongside representatives of the Sikh, Christian and Hindu communities, as well as religious scholars from different Islamic schools of thought.
During the visit, the delegation inspected the building and formally inaugurated restoration work on the damaged portion of the Dharamshala.
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Participants said the structure has existed in its present form since before the creation of Pakistan and has not been subjected to any unlawful occupation.
Leaders Reject “False Propaganda”
Speaking to the media, members of the delegation described the reports circulating from India as baseless and misleading.
They stated that the purpose of such claims was to create misunderstandings regarding the condition of minority religious sites in Pakistan.
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The delegation emphasized that the Dharamshala required repairs solely because part of its aging structure had deteriorated over time.
Commitment to Religious Freedom
The visiting religious leaders reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to protecting places of worship belonging to all religious communities.
They said Pakistan’s Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and equal rights for all citizens, regardless of faith, and stressed that safeguarding minority religious heritage remains a national responsibility.
According to the delegation, government institutions and relevant authorities continue to prioritize the preservation, restoration and maintenance of historical religious sites across the country.
Interfaith Harmony Highlighted
The delegation described interfaith harmony, religious tolerance and mutual respect as core values of Pakistani society.
Members also emphasized that protecting the lives, property and places of worship of minority communities is both a constitutional obligation and an important part of promoting peaceful coexistence.
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They said practical efforts to preserve religious heritage demonstrate Pakistan’s commitment to pluralism and respect for diverse faith traditions.
