Saudi Arabia has raised alarms about beggars entering the Kingdom from Pakistan on Umrah visas, prompting Islamabad to implement the ‘Umrah Act’ to regulate travel agencies. This decision comes amid concerns that these practices could negatively impact the reputation of Pakistani pilgrims and lead to stricter enforcement from the Federal Investigation Agency.
In a development that presents a significant diplomatic challenge for Pakistan, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has expressed serious concerns regarding the influx of beggars from Pakistan under the guise of Umrah pilgrimage visas. According to a report by the Express Tribune, sources from Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs reveal that Saudi officials have warned that should the situation remain unregulated, it could adversely affect the reputation of Pakistani pilgrims visiting for Umrah and Hajj. Specifically, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj has communicated to its Pakistani counterparts the necessity of taking decisive action to prevent the entry of beggars into the Kingdom on Umrah visas. In response to these concerns, Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs is set to implement a new legislative measure termed the “Umrah Act,” which will impose regulatory frameworks on travel agencies facilitating these religious excursions, ensuring that they comply with government oversight. To address these issues, Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi convened a meeting with Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Ahmed Al-Malki of Saudi Arabia, where he assured strict enforcement measures to dismantle any syndicates operating to send beggars to Saudi Arabia. News reports, including those from PTI, noted that many individuals exploit pilgrimage visas, engaging in solicitation activities upon arrival in Saudi Arabia. Zeeshan Khanzada, Secretary for Overseas Pakistanis, highlighted that this issue has been pervasive, damaging the image of Pakistan abroad. Consequently, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has been tasked with dismantling the networks facilitating this phenomenon, as emphasized by Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
The concerns raised by Saudi Arabia over beggars arriving under religious visas speak to broader issues of immigration and the integrity of religious pilgrimage practices. Umrah, a form of pilgrimage to Mecca, is a significant event for many Muslims globally, including Pakistanis who travel in large numbers for religious fulfillment. However, the misuse of these visas for begging has not only tarnished the sanctity of the pilgrimage but also threatens diplomatic relations and the future of Pakistani pilgrims visiting Saudi Arabia, which is largely dependent on maintaining a positive image.
In summary, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s warnings regarding Pakistani beggars arriving under Umrah visas have prompted a critical response from Pakistan, leading to the introduction of the “Umrah Act” and increased regulatory measures. This initiative aims to safeguard the integrity of religious travel and preserve Pakistan’s reputation in the international arena. The coordinated efforts between diplomatic entities and law enforcement agencies underscore the seriousness of this issue, as the potential ramifications on religious tourism loom large.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
