Srinagar, Apr 14 (UNI) Jammu and Kashmir’s top mainstream politicians have expressed concern over reports of an abrupt 80 per cent cut in India’s private Hajj quota, and urged the External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to take up the matter with authorities in Saudi Arabia.
The office of Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said 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,” the office of the CM said on X.

Peoples Democratic Party chief Mehbooba Mufti termed the cut in Haj quota a 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,” she said on X.
Apni Party President Altaf Bukhari too expressed deep concern.
He appealed to the External Affairs Minister, and the Union Minister for Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju, to take up the matter with the Saudi government and ensure that the decision is reversed.

“The reduction in Hajj slots (private Hajj quota) for Indian pilgrims, is a matter of deep concern, as it will deprive thousands — approximately over 40,000 — of deserving aspirants of the opportunity to undertake the sacred pilgrimage this year. Most of these aspirants have already made payments in anticipation of fulfilling their long-cherished spiritual journey,” Bukhari said on X.

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