Chandigarh, August 28, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The North American Punjabi Association (NAPA) has urged the Governor of Balochistan to take immediate steps to restore and protect the historic Gurdwara in Quetta, expressing concern over reports of its demolition or alteration.
NAPA Executive Director Satnam Singh Chahal said the reported destruction or modification of the historic Sikh religious site was a matter of serious concern for Sikhs in Pakistan and across the world. He urged the Balochistan government to view the matter not merely as a property issue but in the context of religious freedom, minority rights and preservation of historical heritage.
“A Gurdwara is not merely a building. It represents the faith, history, sacrifices and centuries-old presence of the Sikh community. No historic Sikh religious site should be demolished, altered or transferred without full transparency, legal scrutiny and consultation with the Sikh community,” Chahal said.
NAPA has called for an immediate independent inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the reported demolition or alteration. It said the inquiry should determine who authorised the action, the legal basis for it, what happened to the original structure and whether the property continues to retain its religious and historical status.
The organisation has also demanded an immediate halt to any further construction, demolition, transfer or modification at the site until the inquiry is completed.
NAPA called for restoration of the historic Gurdwara wherever technically and structurally feasible, along with permanent legal protection for the site as Sikh religious and cultural heritage.
Chahal urged the Governor to set a clear timeline for action, saying authorities should, within 30 days, make public the findings of a preliminary inquiry, clarify the property’s legal status and announce a concrete restoration and protection plan.
NAPA also sought direct consultation with Sikh representatives, including recognised religious and community organisations in Pakistan as well as representatives of the international Sikh diaspora. It said decisions concerning historic Gurdwaras should not be taken without meaningful participation from the Sikh community.
“The world is watching how Pakistan treats the religious heritage of its minorities. Protecting a historic Gurdwara would demonstrate respect for diversity, religious coexistence and the country’s own history,” Chahal said.
NAPA further urged the Government of Pakistan to create a comprehensive national inventory and protection mechanism for historic Sikh religious sites, including Gurdwaras no longer regularly used for worship but possessing historical significance.
“Preserving Sikh heritage should not be viewed as a favour to the Sikh community. This is about protecting history,” Chahal said, adding that historic Gurdwaras deserved protection as part of the shared heritage of the Indian subcontinent.
NAPA said it would continue monitoring developments concerning the Quetta Gurdwara and remain engaged with Sikh organisations, human-rights advocates and diaspora representatives seeking preservation of Sikh religious heritage.
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