As the Hajj season approaches, Pakistani Muslims preparing for their spiritual journey to Saudi Arabia have been counseled to abstain from political expressions or nationalistic displays. This guidance comes from Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi, Chairman of the Pakistan Ulema Council.
Ashrafi emphasized that the two Holy Mosques are sacred places of worship, not platforms for political discourse or nationalistic demonstrations. He further cautioned against raising slogans, displaying flags, or engaging in any unrelated activities that could disrupt the sanctity of these holy sites.
This advice follows an incident in 2022 when some Pakistani pilgrims were arrested for disrespecting the sanctity of Al-Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah by chanting slogans at then Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his delegation.
As Pakistan gears up to send its pilgrims for the Hajj in June this year, the government has already conducted a lottery for those traveling under the government scheme. However, the Sponsorship Scheme has seen a lukewarm response this time.
Saudi Arabia, which hosts around 2 million Muslims for the Hajj season and over 13 million Umrah pilgrims from around the world, is committed to providing the best facilities to the pilgrims. Transportation, a crucial aspect of Hajj due to the logistical challenge of managing millions of people, is a key focus area.
In addition to transportation, the Saudi government is also keen on simplifying visa procedures and has enhanced the Nusuk platform for issuing permits, ensuring a smooth and spiritual journey for all pilgrims.
