New Delhi: It's destination Qadian for around 15,000 visitors from Pakistan.
If the Indian government gives the green signal, Qadian in Punjab is likely to have thousands of visitors from Pakistan between December 26 and 29.
The convention of Ahmadiyyas, which is held in Qadian annually, is attracting a large number of fellow-believers from across the border.
Spokesperson for Ahmaddiya Jamaat, Naseem Khan, says, "We have given 15,000 visa applications. Since our community is persecuted in Pakistan, we are hoping that the Indian government will give visas to the largest number."
The annual Ahmadiya convention is almost as important as a visit to Mecca for Ahmadiya Muslims because their founder was born in Qadian.
The Ahmadiyas, who are not recognised as Muslims by Pakistan and face a lot of persecution, perceive the convention as a forum where they can showcase their belief in an Islam that does not talk about forcible conversions or a violent jihad.
Last year, 3000 Ahmadiyas from Pakistan were given visas and this year the number is likely to go up to 5,000 this time around.
But it's the sheer numbers involved that's giving the Indian government cause for worry.
The Home Ministry and External Affairs ministry are looking at both the security and diplomatic implications of giving visas to so many Pakistani Ahmadiyyas.
Executive Editor, Public Opinion Trends, Sushant Sareen, says, "15,000 applications can be a logistical nightmare for the High Commission. There is also the concern of security. Relations may have improved but there are doubts. There may be some agent provocateurs among the Ahmadiyas coming in."
The ball is now in the Centre's court but it's obvious that because of the many concerns, only a fraction of the number involved will make it to the guest list.
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