Cricket Against Pakistan Allowed, But Pilgrims Barred from Kartarpur Sahib: CM Mann Questions Central Govt

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has criticised the Central Government for blocking pilgrims from visiting Shri Kartarpur Sahib Corridor and Sri Nankana Sahib, while allowing India-Pakistan cricket matches. He called this a double standard, saying that faith and devotion should not be treated like politics. Mann emphasised that visiting these sacred places is not just a religious act, but part of Punjab’s pride and identity.

Double Standards: Films Blocked, Cricket Encouraged

Sometimes films are blocked because they feature Pakistani actors and labeled anti-national. On the other hand, matches with Pakistan are celebrated as patriotic events. A movie that was already shot could not be released, yet the cricket match is live. Has earning money become more important than faith? The Prime Minister says blood and water cannot flow together—then why are cricket grounds open while doors for pilgrims remain closed? There is no business or politics at the doorstep of faith; there is only devotion and service.

CM Mann Questions the Central Govt

The Central Government’s attitude is insulting to Punjab. Sri Kartarpur Sahib and Sri Nankana Sahib are our sacred sites, not political centers. Every day in prayers, we ask for the opportunity to serve and bow there, yet the path is blocked. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has raised serious questions about this decision, asking if cricket is allowed, why are pilgrimages not? He emphasized that this is a matter of sentiment, and governments cannot fight sentiment. While Punjab struggled with floods, the Central Government only held press conferences. The Mann government personally carried out relief work, sending cleaning and medical teams to 2,300 villages. After the floods, the government’s presence in every lane showed who truly stands with the people.

Faith Cannot Be Politicised

Help is sent immediately when there is a crisis in Afghanistan, but Punjab only receives assurances in the name of relief. Rs 1,600 crore was announced, yet not a single rupee has reached Punjab. The Chief Minister asked, “What is this enmity for? Because the Punjab government does not follow your directions?” Mann challenged BJP leaders like Sunil Jakhar and Ravneet Bittu to ask the Prime Minister why restrictions are imposed on visiting Kartarpur Sahib Corridor and Sri Nankana Sahib. Cricket can be played, but pilgrims cannot bow at the Guru’s door? The Central Government seems to be taking revenge on Punjab. If the government does not comply, assistance is blocked, development projects are stalled, and now even the path of faith is closed.

Punjab is the land that gave martyrs like Bhagat Singh and Kartar Singh Sarabha. This land never bows; whenever there is a crisis, Punjab rises stronger. Do not challenge the faith of Punjabis. Sri Kartarpur Sahib and Sri Nankana Sahib are not negotiation grounds—they are part of our hearts. Cricket can wait, politics can wait, but devotion cannot. The Punjab government has once again made it clear: it does not just give speeches; it serves on the ground. This is the difference when the government belongs to the common people. That is why every Punjabi today says, “This government is ours… it works and stands with us on the ground.”