Indian lawmaker Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to push for the international recognition of Amritsar as a “war-free zone,” calling for global protection of the Sikh holy city in the spirit of the Vatican’s status.
In an open letter cited by Fides News Agency, Randhawa said Amritsar — home to the revered Golden Temple and situated near the tense India-Pakistan border — holds “deep spiritual and national significance” and should be granted permanent protection amid growing geopolitical instability.
“The holy city of Amritsar is not just a geographical location, but the spiritual heart of the Sikh faith and a beacon of love and peace for humanity,” Randhawa wrote.
“Its sacred aura transcends religious boundaries, offering comfort, unity, and compassion in a world increasingly torn by conflict and division,” he added.
The Sikh parliamentarian compared Amritsar’s spiritual importance to that of Mecca for Muslims and the Vatican 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 expressed concern that escalating geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan have renewed fears about Amritsar’s vulnerability in the event of armed conflict.
He clarified that his proposal is not for political sovereignty but for “international spiritual recognition and permanent security protection.”
According to Fides, Randhawa stressed the urgency of shielding Amritsar from war and violence amid rising global tensions and militarization.
Citing the universal teachings of the Guru Granth Sahib, Sikhism’s sacred scripture, Randhawa described its message of peace and brotherhood as “a powerful moral force against the rising tide of militarism in the world.”
He said the Sikh principle of Sarbat da Bhala — “the well-being of all” — represents one of humanity’s “last hopes for coexistence and peace.”
He also called on lawmakers from all faiths to support the initiative, saying the concerns raised by Sikh communities and civil society “require a broader perspective… within an international framework, to ensure the security and sanctity of this revered city under all circumstances.”
Randhawa urged the Indian government 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.”
