At least 100 Sikh devotees returning from Pak test COVID positive

As the COVID-19 situation continues to be fragile, at least 100 pilgrims from Punjab who visited Pakistan for Baisakhi celebrations have tested positive for COVID-19 on their return. They all have been put under observation.

Chandigarh:At least 100 pilgrims from Punjab who visited Pakistan for Baisakhi celebrations have tested positive for COVID-19 on their return.

A group of 816 pilgrims reached Pakistan's Lahore on April 12 to celebrate Khalsa Sajna Diwas and Baisakhi at the religiously significant Sikh shrines.

As per reports, at least 100 devotees were diagnosed with COVID-19 after they took a rapid antigen test at Attari-Wagah Joint Check Post. The test was undertaken by some 300 devotees and the testing on other devotees is still underway.

The Pakistani High Commission in Delhi had issued visas to 1,100 Sikh pilgrims. Before departing to Pakistan, all those who tested negative for COVID-19 were allowed to cross the Attari-Wagah Joint Check Post.

They were granted a 10-day visa by the Pakistan High Commission and were allowed to visit various Sikh shrines besides attending the main event held at Gurdwara Panja Sahib on April 14, said an official.

The COVID-19 patients have been put under observation, the official added.

Baisakhi is a spring harvest festival for Sikhs and Hindus. It marks the Sikh new year and commemorates the formation of Khalsa Panth (saint warriors) under Guru Gobind Singh in 1699.

(With inputs from IANS)