Last Updated:
Opposition parties urge the central government to address the reported cancellation of 52,000 Hajj slots by Saudi Arabia. Leaders call for immediate action.
File image of PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin. (Courtesy: PTI)
Opposition parties jointly expressed their concern over the reported cancellation of 52,000 Hajj slots by Saudi Arabia for Indian pilgrims. They urged the central government to address the issue with Saudi leadership.
“The reported cancellation of Hajj slots for over 52,000 Indian pilgrims, many of whom have already completed payments, is deeply concerning. I urge Hon’ble Minister of External Affairs @DrSJaishankar to engage with the Saudi authorities at the earliest to explore a resolution in the interest of all affected pilgrims. This measure is crucial to ease the distress of thousands hoping to undertake the sacred pilgrimage this year,” J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah posted on his official X handle.
Ruling National Conference president Farooq Abdullah appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to speak to the Saudi leadership regarding this issue. “I appeal to the Prime Minister to raise the issue with the Saudi government and ensure that the Hajj quota for Indian pilgrims is not reduced,” he added.
PDP President Mehbooba Mufti highlighted the distress caused by the sudden decision. “Disturbing news emerging from Saudi Arabia. Reports indicate that 80% of India’s private Haj quota has been cut abruptly. This sudden decision is causing immense distress for pilgrims and tour operators across the country. Urge the Ministry of External Affairs to immediately intervene by taking up this matter with the Saudi government to seek a resolution. @MEAIndia @DrSJaishankar,” she posted on X.
In a similar appeal, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin noted the distress caused by the sudden cut in India’s private Haj quota and urged External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to engage with the Saudi authorities for an expeditious resolution.
(This story has not been edited by News18 staff and is published from a syndicated news agency feed – Agencies)
