A major setback has hit Indian pilgrims as Saudi Arabia reportedly cancelled 52,000 Hajj slots for India this year, triggering urgent calls for diplomatic intervention. The cancellation affects thousands of pilgrims—many of whom have already made payments—creating widespread distress across the country.
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah voiced serious concern, urging External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to promptly initiate talks with Saudi authorities. “This measure is crucial to ease the distress of thousands hoping to undertake the sacred pilgrimage,” Abdullah stated via Instagram.
The issue has drawn bipartisan concern, with both ruling and opposition parties demanding immediate action to safeguard the interests of affected pilgrims. The annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca holds immense religious significance, and this unexpected cancellation jeopardises the travel plans of tens of thousands.
As calls for resolution mount, the Centre is under pressure to engage diplomatically and secure restored access for Indian pilgrims. The Ministry of External Affairs has yet to issue an official statement, but developments are being closely watched in the lead-up to Hajj 2025.
