Saudi Arabia has reportedly raised concerns over a growing problem involving Pakistani citizens entering the kingdom under the pretense of performing religious pilgrimages. These individuals are allegedly engaging in begging, causing concern for Saudi authorities. The situation has led to the issuance of a warning by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj to Pakistan, which may have serious consequences if not addressed.
Saudi Arabia Issues a Strict Warning
The problem centers on a rising number of people from Pakistan who have been entering Saudi Arabia on Umrah visas but then turning to begging rather than performing the religious pilgrimage they initially claimed to be undertaking. Saudi authorities have expressed growing frustration, stating that if this trend continues, it could affect the future treatment of legitimate Pakistani pilgrims, including those participating in Umrah and Hajj.
A report by Pakistan’s Express Tribune revealed that the Saudi Ministry of Hajj had formally warned Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs. They demanded swift action to prevent individuals from abusing the visa system to enter Saudi Arabia and engage in begging. Saudi Arabia, a key destination for Muslims worldwide for religious purposes, is keen to preserve the sanctity of these pilgrimages and prevent any misuse of its visa regulations.
Pakistan Responds with Legal Measures
Pakistan, in response to Saudi Arabia’s concerns, has decided to take corrective action to ensure that such incidents do not continue. One of the major steps being considered is the introduction of a new law, tentatively called the “Umrah Act.” The main purpose of this act is to regulate travel agencies that arrange Umrah trips. The new law would place travel agencies under legal oversight, making it more difficult for unscrupulous individuals to exploit the system.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs in Pakistan has also urged the government to find solutions to prevent beggars from traveling to Saudi Arabia under the guise of religious pilgrims. This includes measures to ensure that only genuine pilgrims receive Umrah visas. The Pakistani authorities are seeking to maintain a good relationship with Saudi Arabia while upholding the dignity of the pilgrimage process.
Legal Penalties in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has already taken a hard stance on preventing fraudulent pilgrims from entering the country. In May, the Saudi government issued a fatwa. This religious edict stressed the importance of proper documentation for Hajj. It highlighted the need for permits to perform the pilgrimage. Under the new rules, violations would result in severe penalties. Offenders face a fine of 10,000 Saudi Riyals (around Rs 2.22 lakh). They could also be deported for performing Hajj without permits.
This tough stance aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to ensure security. The country aims to protect the spiritual sanctity of Mecca and Medina. The issue of individuals begging under the guise of pilgrimages has been growing. This has led Saudi officials to take stricter actions. The Kingdom wants to preserve its role as the host of Islam’s two holiest sites. Their goal is to uphold respect and order in these sacred locations.
Reports have surfaced of several incidents involving Pakistani citizens. In September of the previous year, Saudi authorities intercepted and arrested 16 individuals from Pakistan who attempted to enter Saudi Arabia to beg rather than perform religious duties. Officials offloaded these beggars from their flight before they could leave Pakistan.
The issue is not limited to a small number of individuals. Reports indicate that up to 90 percent of beggars arrested abroad are from Pakistan. This highlights the seriousness of the issue. The situation has caused embarrassment for Pakistan. It has also strained relations with countries like Saudi Arabia. These countries expect foreign pilgrims to strictly follow pilgrimage rules.
Pakistan’s quick response to the Saudi warning, including the development of the “Umrah Act,” highlights the seriousness of the situation. Pakistan is eager to ensure that genuine pilgrims can visit Saudi Arabia. The country wants to prevent their journeys from being affected by those abusing the system. However, there is increasing pressure to make changes quickly. This is to avoid further warnings or consequences from Saudi Arabia.
