125‑Year‑Old Gurdwara Demolished in Punjab, Prompting Sikh Protests and Indian Diplomatic Response
A historic Sikh place of worship in Farooqabad, Pakistan, was razed, sparking protests and condemnation from India and Sikh groups, while officials announced plans for restoration and inquiries.
A 125‑year‑old historic gurdwara was demolished in Pakistan's Punjab province. The gurdwara was located in Farooqabad, about 70 km from Lahore. The demolition sparked protests by the Sikh community. India condemned the demolition, describing it as a "targeted act of vandalism."
According to Hindustan Times, the demolition was carried out by a local businessman, and India described the demolition as "deeply distressing." Times of India reported that India's Ministry of External Affairs expressed grave concern over the lack of action by local authorities and the Evacuee Trust Property Board. Hindustan Times also reported that a delegation from the Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee met officials from the Ministry of External Affairs and submitted a memorandum requesting the government to ensure no further demolition or damage. Hindustan Times further reported that Punjab minorities minister Ramesh Singh Arora announced the immediate restoration of the gurdwara and directed the Auqaf Department to conduct an inquiry into the ownership and status of the land.
Hindu reported that India called the demolition "deeply distressing."
This account was written only from facts that survived Augur's
corroboration pass — 4 corroborated across opposed news blocs,
0 contested (attributed to both sides), 6
single-source (attributed). Nothing was added; no significance was inferred.
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