Farooq, Omar, Mehbooba Urge Centre’s Urgent Intervention Over Abrupt Haj Quota Cut by Saudi Arabia
SRINAGAR, Apr 14: A wave of political concern swept through Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday as prominent leaders across party lines—including National Conference president Farooq Abdullah, NC vice president Omar Abdullah, and PDP president Mehbooba Mufti—called upon the Central Government to intervene following reports that Saudi Arabia has abruptly slashed India’s Haj quota.
The leaders expressed alarm over the reported cancellation of over 52,000 Haj slots, especially those allotted under the private tour operator quota, a move that has reportedly left thousands of prospective pilgrims in deep distress. Although there has been no official confirmation from either the Indian or Saudi authorities, the reports have sparked a strong reaction across the political spectrum.
Dr. Farooq Abdullah, while addressing the media in Srinagar, appealed directly to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take up the issue with the Saudi leadership, emphasizing the religious and emotional significance of the pilgrimage. “Every Muslim aspires to perform Haj at least once in a lifetime. Thousands of families across India save up for years to undertake this sacred journey. I urge the Prime Minister, given his close ties with Saudi Arabia, to raise this matter urgently to ensure the aspirations of our citizens are respected,” said the veteran leader.
Former J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, echoing his father’s concerns, took to social media platform X to raise the issue publicly. He described the reported cancellation of Haj slots for more than 52,000 Indian pilgrims, many of whom have already deposited funds for the journey, as “deeply concerning.” He appealed to External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar to swiftly initiate diplomatic engagement with the Saudi authorities to explore a resolution. “Such action is essential to alleviate the distress and confusion faced by the affected pilgrims,” Omar posted.
PDP president Mehbooba Mufti also expressed strong displeasure, citing that nearly 80% of India’s private Haj quota had been reportedly withdrawn without warning. “Disturbing news emerging from Saudi Arabia… This sudden decision is causing immense anxiety not only among pilgrims but also the licensed tour operators who have made preparations for months,” she wrote on X. Calling the move abrupt and ill-timed, Mufti urged the Ministry of External Affairs to step in immediately and seek a diplomatic solution.
Leaders across the board underscored the immense cultural, spiritual, and emotional investment that Haj represents for Muslims in India. Many of the pilgrims affected by the reported quota reduction had already completed payments and preparations, with some even undergoing medical clearances and logistical arrangements. Tour operators, too, are reportedly facing operational chaos, with ongoing confusion about bookings, refunds, and travel planning.
In the absence of an official statement from the Government of India or confirmation from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the political leaders have appealed for clarity and accountability. They emphasized that timely action by the Union Government could help prevent disappointment, financial loss, and unrest among thousands of Indian Muslims who had hoped to fulfill their religious obligation this year.
