Pakistan urges Hajj pilgrims to follow laws, avoid politics

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs on Wednesday directed Hajj pilgrims to abide by all the instructions of Saudi officials and avoid political conversations while performing the annual Islamic pilgrimage, which is scheduled to begin in the next two days.
Hajj is one of the five central pillars of Islam, mandatory for all adult Muslims to perform at least once in their lifetime if they have the financial means and are not restricted by any physical ailments.
According to official figures, around 160,000 Pakistani pilgrims are expected to perform the Hajj this year out of a quota of 179,210.
Zulfiqar Haider, the top official at the ministry, said in a statement the days of Hajj were approaching, and on Friday, all Pakistani pilgrims would reach Mina to perform the pilgrimage.
“He clarified that all arrangements during the days of Hajj in the sacred rituals are overseen by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and its approved offices,” the statement continued. “He also warned the pilgrims to strictly follow Saudi laws and ensure full compliance and strictly follow the instructions of Saudi officials by avoiding any arguments.”
“He also advised Pakistani pilgrims to refrain from any political or sectarian discussions and debates, and not to engage in any activities (meetings, processions, or protests) that could discredit Pakistan and violate Saudi laws,” the statement added.
Haider noted that pilgrims would be responsible for their own actions.
Hajj is scheduled to begin on Friday, June 14, and will continue until Tuesday, June 19.