In a deeply distressing situation for hundreds of Haj aspirants in Kashmir, around 60% of pilgrims remain stranded in the Valley due to the prolonged closure of Srinagar Airport, a consequence of heightened India-Pakistan tensions.
Only 40% of the scheduled pilgrims have managed to depart for Saudi Arabia, leaving the majority uncertain about their chances of performing the sacred pilgrimage this year.
Sources indicate that the Saudi government has expressed reluctance to accommodate the delayed pilgrims whose flights were cancelled on their scheduled departure dates. With no alternative arrangements in sight, the affected pilgrims are caught in a web of diplomatic uncertainty.
"This is not just a logistical issue; it’s a matter of deep emotional and spiritual significance for the pilgrims," said a family member of one of the affected Hajis, speaking on condition of anonymity. "Many have waited years, even decades, for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and now it's slipping away due to circumstances beyond their control."
Officials in Kashmir have expressed helplessness in the matter, stating that no resolution is possible unless the central government intervenes at the diplomatic level. “Until the Government of India raises the issue formally with Saudi authorities, we are unable to proceed further. We understand the pain and frustration of the pilgrims, but the matter is out of our hands at this stage,” said a senior official from the state Haj Committee.
The stranded pilgrims have vehemently appealed to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to step in and escalate the matter with the concerned authorities, both at the national and international levels. “We urge the Chief Minister to take immediate steps and ensure that our spiritual journey is not sacrificed at the altar of political tensions,” said Ghulam Rasool, one of the pilgrims still awaiting departure.
Religious and civil society organizations have also voiced concern over the plight of the pilgrims and have urged for an urgent resolution.
As the uncertainty looms large and the clock ticks on the Haj schedule, the affected pilgrims continue to wait in hope that diplomatic efforts will succeed and their journey of faith will not be denied. [KNT]
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