Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Simranjit Mann leads march to Wagah border demanding Indo-Pak trade revival, BSF halts protest
Babushahi Bureau
Amritsar (Punjab), April 17, 2025: In a significant appeal aimed at fostering cross-border cooperation and regional economic growth, Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar) president Simranjit Singh Mann today led a protest near the Attari-Wagah border, calling for the immediate reopening of trade between India and Pakistan.
Speaking to the media, Mann emphasized the urgent need to move beyond divisive politics and work toward peace, prosperity, and legal responsibility.
He termed the demand for reopening the Attari-Wagah trade route not just an economic necessity, but a historical, spiritual, and legal obligation.
According to a statement by the party, farmers in Punjab — particularly in the Amritsar district — are grappling with low prices and limited markets for their produce. "Reopening the border would give them access to better pricing for crops like wheat, rice, vegetables, and fruits," Mann said.
“Likewise, traders dealing in goods such as dry fruits, cement, textiles, and industrial supplies stand to regain their lost markets.”
The reopening of the trade route, Mann argued, would generate thousands of jobs in sectors like transport, warehousing, hospitality, and tourism. “It could even increase India’s GDP by 1%, reduce dependence on foreign ports, and improve regional prosperity — thereby strengthening India’s global image as a responsible nation.”
Addressing concerns about national security, Mann cited WTO guidelines under GATT Article XXI, saying that while restrictions can be imposed for security, they must follow rules and should not be misused.
“Trade does not breed conflict — it reduces it. History teaches us that economic proximity fosters peace,” he stated.
Mann concluded by saying, “India must not remain shackled by the politics of hate. This is a moment to choose growth over fear, peace over hostility. The voice calling for this change comes not just from political quarters, but from farmers, traders, workers, and minorities — it is a voice aligned with the values of our Constitution and the needs of humanity.”
The protest was supported by a large number of party leaders and workers, including General Secretaries Harpal Singh Baler, Upkar Singh Sandhu, Kuldeep Singh Bhagowal, and Gurjant Singh Kattu, along with PAC members and other prominent figures such as Tejinder Singh Deol, Darshan Singh Mander, Balwinder Singh Kala, Bibi Charanjit Kaur, and Bibi Raspinder Kaur Gill.