Peaceful Baisakhi festival a great achievement’

LAHORE:Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) Chairman Farid Iqbal on Monday said that Pakistan is a peaceful country and the successful and harmonious conclusion of the annual Baisakhi festival is a testament to this reality.

Speaking during a media interaction, he expressed satisfaction over the peaceful return of Sikh yatrees from around the world after the festival. Farid highlighted that as in previous years, this year’s event was held with full enthusiasm and excellent arrangements. He emphasised that the Ministry of Religious Affairs, through the ETPB, played a key role in organising religious events of Sikhs, Hindus, and other communities. These arrangements include accommodation, free meals, transport, and security.

Expressing gratitude for the appreciation received from Sikh yatrees, he noted that the visitors praised Pakistan’s warm hospitality and the arrangements made for Baisakhi festival and other Sith rituals.

Addressing anti-Pakistan narratives, the ETPB chairman said that false propaganda is often spread about Pakistan, but the country ensured complete religious freedom for minorities. “People of all religions and sects live together like brothers. Despite all efforts, our enemies cannot succeed in tarnishing Pakistan’s image,” he said.

He reaffirmed that promoting interfaith harmony is top priority of the government. “The protection of minority rights is enshrined in the Constitution and laws of Pakistan, and we remain committed to this cause,” he added.

Iqbal also acknowledged the efforts of federal and provincial institutions, law enforcement agencies, and the media for their cooperation. He noted that the Baisakhi festival had become one of the top international religious events hosted in Pakistan and shared that a record number of Sikh yatrees participated this year — a clear indicator of the event’s success. He reiterated his commitment to ensuring the comfort and hospitality of all pilgrims, especially those visiting from neighbouring countries.