ASIA/INDIA - Amristar, a city sacred to the Sikhs, should become a "war-free zone"

New Delhi (Agenzia Fides) – Amritsar, the holy city of Sikhism, on the border between India and Pakistan and home to the famous Golden Temple, should be declared a "war-free zone" and be granted international protection following the example of the Vatican. This is Indian parliamentarian and Sikh Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa demanded of the Indian government. He called on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to work with international bodies to initiate the appropriate recognition process for a city that presents itself as a symbolic place of peace for humanity.
The matter, according to an open letter, has "deep spiritual and national significance," because "the holy city of Amristar is not just a geographical location, but the spiritual heart of the Sikh faith and a beacon of love and peace for humanity." "Its sacred aura transcends religious boundaries, offering comfort, unity, and compassion in a world increasingly torn by conflict and division," he continued.
"For Sikhism, Amritsar has the same spiritual significance as Mecca has for Muslims and the Vatican has for Christians. Therefore, I humbly request that Amritsar's global spiritual significance be officially recognized and that appropriate international security mechanisms, similar to those that protect the Vatican, be adopted," he said.
Randhawa noted that "recent geopolitical tensions, particularly on the India-Pakistan front, have rekindled legitimate concerns about Amritsar's potential vulnerability in the event of a military conflict." "The appeal," the letter continues, "is not a request for political sovereignty (such as that enjoyed by the Vatican City), but rather a request for international spiritual recognition and permanent security protection. At a time marked by increasing global tensions and militarization, it is imperative that Amritsar be protected from the threat of war and violence, now and forever," the MP said. The politician recalled the universal teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib (the holy text of Sikhism), which are based on peace, humility, and brotherhood and represent "a powerful moral force against the rising tide of militarism in the world." "While many global powers are increasingly inclined toward conflict, the Sikh ethos of 'Sarbat da Bhala' ('the well-being of all') stands as one of humanity's last hopes for coexistence and peace," he noted. The concerns expressed by the Sikh community and civil society throughout India require a broader perspective, the MP continued, beyond regional circles and within an international framework, "to ensure the security and sanctity of this revered city under all circumstances." Requesting the support of other parliamentarians of all religions, Randhawa urged the Indian Prime Minister "to take the necessary diplomatic and legislative steps to declare Amritsar a 'war-free zone' and a place recognized and respected by all, as it carries a message of peace and harmony for all humanity." (PA) (Agenzia Fides, 5/6/2025)

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