Saudi Arabia asks Pakistan to stop sending beggars or face consequences.
Saudi Arabia has raised eyebrows with Pakistan regarding the increasing number of Pakistani citizens entering the kingdom on Umrah visas and involving in begging activities.
The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has expressed disappointment over this growing issue, emphasizing that it hurts the sanctity of the religious pilgrimage and violates local laws.
Saudi Arabian authorities are also planning to impose stricter visa conditions if the problem persists.
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They may also ban or restrict travelling for Pakistani pilgrims.
This move would affect many who genuinely intend to perform Umrah, making it a pressing issue for Pakistan.
In response, Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs has proposed new measures to curb this problem, including introducing an “Umrah Act.”
This act will aim to regulate the operations of travel agencies involved in Umrah facilitation, ensuring they follow strict ethical guidelines.
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The government is also coordinating with agencies such as the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to take legal action against the organized groups responsible for sending individuals to Saudi Arabia under the guise of religious pilgrimage, only to engage in begging.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi recently met with the Saudi ambassador to discuss the issue and reassure the Saudi authorities of Pakistan’s commitment to resolve the matter.
The FIA has been ordered to take swift action against those exploiting the pilgrimage system.
