Dr Tahir Choudhary urges Hon’ble PM Modi, MEA to intervene after sharp cut in India’s private Hajj quota

Expressing deep concern over the sudden 80% reduction in India’s private Hajj quota by Saudi Arabia, senior BJP leader and party spokesperson Dr. Tahir Choudhary has appealed to the Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to take urgent diplomatic steps to safeguard the interests of thousands of affected pilgrims, particularly those from Jammu & Kashmir.

In a statement issued to the press, Dr. Choudhary said the abrupt cut—impacting over 52,000 Indian pilgrims—has left many Hajj hopefuls in a state of shock and uncertainty, especially those who had already made arrangements and payments through private Hajj Group Organizers (HGOs).

“Hundreds of applicants from Jammu & Kashmir, including women and elderly people, are now caught in limbo. The dreams of performing this sacred pilgrimage are slipping away for many due to circumstances beyond their control,” Dr. Choudhary said.

He called the situation “deeply distressing,” especially in the context of pilgrims who had been selected and were preparing spiritually, emotionally, and financially for the once-in-a-lifetime journey.

“I earnestly request Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji and Hon’ble External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar to personally look into the matter and engage with the Saudi authorities to ensure that India’s rightful quota is reinstated or revised favorably,” Dr. Choudhary urged.

The senior BJP leader further added that the Hajj pilgrimage is not only a religious obligation for many, but also an emotional aspiration for elderly citizens who have waited years for their turn.

He emphasized that while the Saudi government’s decision may be part of broader crowd-control measures, such abrupt changes require transparent communication and proper coordination to minimize the impact on pilgrims.