A Call from the Valley: J&K’s Hajj & Umrah Operators Demand Direct Flights to Saudi Arabia

SRINAGAR, SEPT 7: In a heartfelt plea that echoes the concerns of thousands of pilgrims, Hajj and Umrah tour operators from Jammu & Kashmir are asking for something simple — dignity, convenience, and relief.

At the 25th Annual General Meeting of the Jammu and Kashmir Association of Hajj & Umrah Companies, held at SKICC Srinagar, members came together with one unified voice: it’s time to allow direct flights from Srinagar to Saudi Arabia. No more unnecessary stops, no more exhausting detours through New Delhi.

For many pilgrims, especially the elderly, the journey to fulfill a sacred duty is already emotionally and physically taxing. Being forced to travel to Delhi for immigration and onward flights only adds to the struggle — increasing both the costs and the stress.

The meeting was attended by Member of Parliament Rahullah Mehdi, former legislators Farooq Ahmad Shah and Sheikh Khurshid, and respected Islamic scholars like Mufti Nazir Qasmi. Together with travel operators, they painted a clear picture: this isn’t just a logistical issue — it’s a matter of humanity, respect, and fairness.

MP Rahullah Mehdi urged travel companies to uphold their responsibilities and ensure better services for pilgrims. He reminded everyone to stay united and avoid controversies that harm the sanctity of these spiritual journeys.

The Association also raised an important economic concern — why are religious pilgrimages like Hajj and Umrah taxed under GST? Shouldn’t these spiritual acts be free from commercial burdens? They stressed that applying GST to these services is not only unfair but disheartening to thousands of families trying to send a loved one for pilgrimage.

There were also calls for better infrastructure, smoother coordination with airlines, and transparent processes that make the pilgrimage experience less bureaucratic and more dignified.

The Association has pledged to send a formal memorandum to the Government of India, requesting prompt action to address these concerns — most urgently, the start of direct international flights from Srinagar to Saudi Arabia.

For the people of Jammu & Kashmir, this is more than a policy demand. It’s a plea to be heard, understood, and supported in fulfilling their faith with ease and honor.