In an incident that might further spark tensions between India and Pakistan, the passports of 23 Indians have reportedly gone missing from the Pakistan High Commission, triggering a major security concern.
The passports belonged to Sikh pilgrims who had submitted their travel documents through a Delhi-based agent, to obtain visas to visit gurdwaras in Pakistan, including the historic Kartarpur Sahib.
A total of 3,800 Sikh pilgrims from across the globe were issued Pakistani visas on the occasion of the 549th birth anniversary celebrations of Guru Nanak from November 21st to 30th.
The affected passport holders were reportedly supposed to make the trip along with the other Sikh pilgrims during the same time period. 
The matter came to light after several of the affected passport holders registered a complaint with police.
Visiting Indian Sikh pilgrims visit the shrine of their spiritual leader Guru Nanak Dev in Kartarpur, Pakistan, 28 November 2018. Source: EPA
As a result, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) immediately revoked all missing passports to prevent misuse of the travel documents.
“This is a serious issue and we have taken all necessary action to prevent any misuse of these passports,” an Indian official told The Times of India.
The travel agent who had collected the passports allegedly told Indian authorities that he had submitted the documents to the Pakistan High Commission, but when he went to collect the passports, he was told that they do not possess the said documents.
Meanwhile, distancing itself from the issue, Pakistan has denied any involvement in the incident.
Former Indian cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu, led his country's delegation to Pakistan for the groundbreaking ceremony of Kartarpur corridor. Source: AAP
While the decision was largely welcomed, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh was among a few who raised questions over Pakistan's intentions and subsequent security implications of the decision.
“Pakistani Army intends to increase the activity. Every Sikh is happy with the announcement and there is sympathy for Pakistan. This will lead to an increase in recruitment [for the terror acts]. Keep religion on one side. See the strategic attitude, see what the Pakistani army wants to do," Mr Singh had said after Pakistan announced its decision to construct a passage linking India with the Kartarpur Sahib gurdwara in Pakistan’s Narowal district.
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