Srinagar- Over 52,000 Indians who had booked for their Hajj pilgrimage through private tour operators are likely to face a major setback. The Ministry of Minority Affairs has issued a fresh circular stating that only 20 percent of the private quota that was booked earlier will be confirmed initially. It means that 80 percent of the people who registered under Combined Hajj Group Organisers (CHGOs) may not be able to perform Hajj 2025.
It is important to note that the decision comes after the Saudi Ministry of Haj and Umrah shut down access to the Nusuk portal—a mandatory online platform used to finalise contracts and services for pilgrims. The Saudi authorities cancelled Mina Zones 1 and 2, which had been allotted to CHGOs, due to the delays in payments and non-finalisation of service agreements. The remaining zones (3, 4 and 5) have also been held up, further worsening the situation.
Ruling and Opposition parties in J&K have come together to voice their concern after the reported cancellation 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,” Chief Minister Omar Abdullah posted on his official X handle.
Ruling National Conference president Farooq Abdullah appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to speak to the Saudi leadership in this regard.
“I appeal to the Prime Minister to raise the issue with the Saudi government and ensure that the Hajj quota for Indian pilgrims is not reduced,” he added.
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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