India on Friday lodged a strong protest with Pakistan over the alleged harassment of Indian High Commission officials in Islamabad and the denial of access to Indian Sikh pilgrims visiting the country.

The ministry of external affairs (MEA) said consular officials of the Indian High Commission were 'harassed and denied access' to Indian pilgrims at Gurudwara Nankana Sahib and Gurudwara Sacha Sauda on November 21 and 22. It said access was denied despite the Pakistan foreign ministry granting them prior travel permission.

The allegation comes a day after an announcement that the Kartarpur corridor would be opened to allow Sikh pilgrims to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib for the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak next year.

In a statement, the MEA said India has also expressed grave concern over reports of attempts being made, during the ongoing visit of Indian pilgrims to Pakistan, 'to incite communal disharmony and intolerance and promote secessionist tendencies with the objective of undermining India's sovereignty and territorial integrity'.

There were reports that pro-Khalistani banners were shown to the Indian pilgrims in Pakistan.

It said Pakistan has been called upon to take all measures to not allow its territory to be used for any 'hostile propaganda' and support for 'secessionist tendencies' against India.