Slashing of India’s Haj quota by SA
Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Apr 14: National Conference president Farooq Abdullah today sought the intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi after reports emerging from Saudi Arabia indicated India’s Haj quota has been abruptly slashed.
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The former Union Minister said every Muslim dreams to go on the Haj pilgrimage at least once in a lifetime.
“I would like to request the Prime Minister to take up the matter as he is close to the country (Saudi Arabian leadership,” Abdullah said.
He was responding to a question about some opposition leaders flagging the issue on Sunday even as there was no official word from the Government on the matter so far.
“He (the Prime Minister) should urge them (the Saudi Arabia leadership) that this issue is related to thousands of people… they save money so that they can go on this holy pilgrimage. It is a dream of every Muslim to go there,” the former J-K Chief Minister said.
Meanwhile, Ruling and Opposition parties have come together to voice their concern after the reported cancellation of 52,000 Hajj slots by Saudi Arabia for Indian pilgrims and urged the Central Government to take up the matter with their 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.
PDP president Mehbooba Mufti said the sudden decision to reduce the Hajj quota has caused immense distress for both the pilgrims and tour operators.
“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.
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