ETPB denies Sheikhupura Gurdwara demolition

The Evacuee Trust Property Board has rejected reports circulating on social media alleging the demolition of the

The Evacuee Trust Property Board has rejected reports circulating on social media alleging the demolition of the historic Gurdwara Singh Sabha, stating that the religious site remains fully intact and unharmed.

According to the board, the controversy stemmed from demolition work involving two commercial shops located adjacent to the inactive gurdwara building. The tenants reportedly began dismantling the structures without obtaining prior permission from the relevant authorities.

Officials from the district administration intervened after receiving information about the unauthorised activity on June 24. The work was immediately halted, the premises were sealed, and legal proceedings were initiated against those responsible for the violation.

The board clarified that the historic gurdwara itself was never affected by the demolition activity and continues to remain under official protection and preservation measures.

Authorities further explained that although local municipal officials had declared the adjoining shops unsafe due to structural concerns, any repair work, alterations or demolition involving properties under the control of the Evacuee Trust Property Board requires formal approval, which had not been secured by the occupants.

As part of the action taken, notices were issued to the tenants, their tenancy agreements were cancelled and possession of the properties was taken back by the authorities.

A delegation from the Sikh community, led by Sardar Palwinder Singh, later visited the site and expressed satisfaction with the measures taken to safeguard the religious heritage site.

Separately, Punjab Minister for Minority Affairs Ramesh Singh Arora also visited the location alongside district administration officials to review the situation and preservation efforts.