Saudi Arabia has raised alarms over the influx of beggars from Pakistan entering the Kingdom under the Umrah visa. The Saudi Ministry of Hajj issued warnings, which have led Pakistan to propose new regulations through an “Umrah Act” to manage travel agencies and prevent unauthorized activities. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met with the Saudi Ambassador to discuss measures and address the issue that affects Pakistan’s image.
In a recent communication to Pakistan, Saudi Arabia has expressed concerns regarding the influx of beggars arriving under the guise of pilgrims undertaking the Umrah pilgrimage. A report from the Express Tribune cited sources from Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs, indicating a warning issued by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj. This warning highlights the potential detrimental effect that the growing number of beggars may have on the reputation of Pakistani pilgrims attending Umrah and Hajj. In light of these concerns, Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs is considering the enactment of an “Umrah Act” designed to regulate travel agencies that facilitate Umrah trips, thereby establishing a legal framework for oversight by the government. Furthermore, Pakistan’s Interior Minister, Mr. Mohsin Naqvi, held discussions with Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Ahmed Al-Malki of Saudi Arabia, during which he assured the implementation of stringent measures to combat the trafficking of beggars disguised as religious pilgrims. As reported by PTI, it is believed that some Pakistani nationals are exploiting Umrah visas to engage in begging activities in the Middle East. Secretary of Overseas Pakistanis, Mr. Zeeshan Khanzada, indicated that last year’s trends included significant numbers of beggars traveling under the guise of ziarat, or pilgrimage. To address this issue, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) of Pakistan has been assigned the task of dismantling the networks that facilitate the departure of beggars to Saudi Arabia, an initiative that Mr. Mohsin Naqvi stated is crucial for preserving Pakistan’s image on the international stage.
The issue of beggars traveling to Saudi Arabia under the Umrah visa has become a point of contention between Pakistan and the Kingdom. Saudi authorities are increasingly vigilant regarding individuals arriving under religious pretenses who engage in activities such as begging, which they believe tarnishes the image of authentic pilgrims. The situation necessitates immediate action from the Pakistani government to ensure that only genuine pilgrims are allowed entry into Saudi Arabia, thus safeguarding both nations’ interests and reputations.
In summary, Saudi Arabia’s concerns over beggars entering the Kingdom under Umrah visas have prompted the Pakistani government to take serious measures to curtail this practice. The introduction of the “Umrah Act” aims to bring travel facilitation under regulatory control, while agencies like the FIA will work to dismantle the networks that exploit religious pilgrimages. These actions are essential for preserving Pakistan’s reputation and the integrity of Umrah and Hajj pilgrimages.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
