Jammu and Kashmir Leaders Call for Action on Hajj Slot Cuts
Leaders from Jammu and Kashmir, including Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti, are urging the central government to take immediate action concerning the recent reduction of Hajj slots for Indian pilgrims. Reports have emerged indicating that around 52,000 Hajj slots for this year may be canceled, a situation that has left many pilgrims worried.
Last week, Saudi Arabia announced a temporary halt on issuing short-term visas for citizens of 14 countries, India included. This decision has significantly disrupted plans for many pilgrims aiming to travel to Saudi Arabia for the Hajj.
In a message shared on the social media platform X, Chief Minister Abdullah expressed his deep concern over the reported cancellation, emphasizing that many pilgrims have already made payments. He has called on External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to connect with Saudi authorities promptly to find a solution that would benefit the affected pilgrims. "It’s essential to alleviate the distress of thousands gearing up for their sacred pilgrimage this year," Omar stated.
Mehbooba Mufti also voiced her concerns, highlighting the distress among pilgrims due to a sudden cut in what she described as 80% of India’s private Hajj quota. She urged the External Affairs Ministry to urgently address this issue with Saudi officials to seek a resolution.
Furthermore, National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah expressed his intention to approach the Prime Minister regarding this pressing matter. He emphasized the need for direct communication with Saudi leadership to prevent a reduction in the number of slots available for Indian pilgrims.
Upcoming Hajj Dates
The Hajj is expected to take place between June 4 and June 9, 2025, depending on the moon sighting that marks the beginning of Zil-Hajj, the last month of the Islamic calendar. Indian pilgrims are anticipated to start their journeys to Saudi Arabia by late April.
In India, arrangements for Hajj travel are typically managed by either the Hajj Committee of India, which is part of the Ministry of Minority Affairs, or through authorized private tour operators known as Hajj Group Organisers. Recently, in January 2025, India secured an agreement with Saudi Arabia confirming a pilgrimage quota of 175,025 for Indian citizens.
