Clashes in Pakistan leave several Sikh pilgrims stranded in Lahore 

The ongoing protests in different parts of the country over the arrest of Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan chief Saad Hussain Rizvi has left more than 800 Sikh pilgrims stranded.

The jatha, which was accommodated at Gurdwara Dera Sahib in Lahore on Monday night, has not been able to proceed to Hasan Abdal, where the historic gurdwara is located, in view of the tension in Pakistan, reports Hindustan Times.

“We were stuck at Wagah border till 9.30pm on Monday after crossing over to Pakistan. We spent the entire day waiting in buses though arrangements of food and water were made for us. After Pakistan’s security forces got the roads cleared, we were taken to Gurdwara Dehra Sahib at 11.30pm,” Gurdev Singh, one of the pilgrims, told the newspaper.

Meanwhile, journalist Ravinder Singh tweeted: "Govt of India Concerned about the safety and security of Sikh pilgrims stuck in #DeraSahib Gurdwara, Pakistan. Govt monitoring the situation closely and #MEA has contacted the Pak Authorities to ensure the safety and security of the #SikhJatha: Govt Sources."

Pakistan is witnessing protests for the second consecutive day on Tuesday over the arrest of Rizvi.

Major intersections remained closed in Lahore while traffic was upended in Islamabad and Karachi. Further, Motorway Police advised citizens to avoid travelling unnecessarily, adding that Motorway M-1 and M-2 were open for all kinds of traffic, reports Dawn News.