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The Saudi Hajj Ministry has agreed to reopen the Hajj (Nusuk) Portal for Combined Hajj Group Operators (CHGOs) to accommodate 10,000 pilgrims.
The ministry said that it has issued urgent directions to CHGOs to complete their process without delay. (AP File)
The Ministry of Minority Affairs said that, following Centre’s intervention, the Saudi Hajj Ministry has agreed to reopen the Hajj (Nusuk) Portal for Combined Hajj Group Operators (CHGOs) to accommodate 10,000 pilgrims, based on current availability in Mina.
The ministry said that it has issued urgent directions to CHGOs to complete their process without delay.
It said, ” Thanks to the Government’s intervention, the Saudi Hajj Ministry has agreed to reopen the Hajj (Nusuk) Portal for Combined Hajj Group Operators (CHGOs) to accommodate 10,000 pilgrims, based on current availability in Mina. MoMA has issued urgent directions to CHGOs to complete their process without delay.”
India remains appreciative of any further gestures from Saudi authorities to accommodate more pilgrims, the ministry added.
Omar Abdullah, Mehbooba Mufti Urged Centre To Intervene On The Issue
Earlier, leaders from Opposition parties expressed their concern over the cancellation of Hajj slots by Saudi Arabia for Indian pilgrims.
J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah wrote in a post on X, formerly Twitter, “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.”
PDP President Mehbooba Mufti had then said, “Disturbing news emerging from Saudi Arabia. Reports indicate that 80% of India’s private Hajj 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.”
