Ministry of External Affairs: India ready to discuss expansion of pilgrimage sites, travel modes

In a recent turn of events, the governments of India and Pakistan have shown interest in introducing more religious sites and modes of travel for the pilgrims of the two nations. This will make visiting respective religious places easier for devotees on either side. Though there is already a protocol to allow pilgrims on both sides, a new proposal to expand the number of sites is also there, reportedly.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Arindam Bagchi in a media briefing informed that India has a very positive approach towards this issue and is ready to talk with Pakistan.
He further said, "As you are aware, under the 1974 Protocol between India and Pakistan, visits to religious shrines are being facilitated regularly. There is an interest on both sides to expand the agreed list of shrines and mode of travel."

Pakistan media has reported that the Pakistan Hindu Council has proposed to fly 160 Pakistani Hindu pilgrims from Karachi to Jaipur and the trip has been postponed because of "non-clearance" from the Indian side.
Bagchi also said that it naturally needs to be discussed under the protocol. “Let me underline India has a positive approach on this matter and is willing to engage with the Pakistani side. You are also aware restrictions are in place on movement and gathering in view of the Covid-19 pandemic. As the situation normalizes we expect that time can be utilized to hold a discussion".

India has stated that once the COVID-19 restrictions are removed, the expansion of the pilgrimage sites can be discussed under the 1974 protocol.