India Condemns Gurdwara Demolition as PM Modi Strengthens Strategic Ties with Japan

India has issued a formal, strong condemnation regarding the unauthorized demolition of the 125-year-old Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha Sahib in Farooqabad, Pakistan. The site, which is deeply linked to the Sikh Singh Sabha reform movement, was destroyed by a local businessman, sparking significant outcry among the Sikh community worldwide. While Pakistani authorities have pledged an inquiry and committed to restoration, the event has reignited diplomatic concerns about the systematic protection of minority religious heritage sites within Pakistan. India views this as a deplorable act of targeted vandalism.

In a move toward broader geopolitical realignment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japanese leader Sanae Takaichi held high-level discussions to deepen the India-Japan Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. The summit focused on critical sectors including energy security, artificial intelligence, and defense collaboration. Recognizing the volatility in West Asia and Ukraine, both leaders reaffirmed a shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. They condemned cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan and emphasized the need for stable, fraternal alliances in the region to counter expansionist threats.

The dialogue resulted in agreements to integrate supply chains more closely, specifically regarding semiconductors, critical minerals, and green energy manufacturing. By reducing reliance on external markets, both nations aim to bolster technological self-reliance. Takaichi underscored the "brother and sister" nature of the bond between Delhi and Tokyo, signaling a shift from traditional developmental support to deep, institutionalized strategic alignment. This partnership serves as a vital lever for India's ambition to become a global manufacturing hub, leveraging Japanese investment to navigate persistent regional security challenges and maintain long-term economic resilience.