Nearly 50,000 Pakistani pilgrims disappear in Iraq: minister

Iraq offers free visas to pilgrims but tour operators charge over $80, Salik Hussain tells Senate

Nearly 50,000 Pakistanis have disappeared in Iraq during pilgrimage, prompting the government to consider a new policy for pilgrims, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Chaudhry Salik Hussain said.

During a Senate committee meeting chaired by Senator Attaur Rehman on Wednesday, Hussain revealed, "Around 50,000 Pakistanis went missing in Iraq. The Iraqi government issues free visas for pilgrims, but tour operators charge $80-90."

The committee discussed monitoring mechanisms and challenges faced by pilgrims, particularly at the Taftan border. Issues of prolonged waits, lack of basic facilities, and high costs were highlighted.

The meeting concluded with a decision to collaborate with provincial governments to improve the situation and develop a comprehensive policy to enhance the management of pilgrimages.

The Additional Secretary of Religious Affairs informed the committee about a new policy for pilgrims to Iraq, Iran, and Syria, which is pending cabinet approval.

Pilgrims are monitored in groups at Taftan, with 136 groups sent for pilgrimage.

Senator Raja Nisar Abbas highlighted the long waiting periods and the lack of basic facilities, with food and drink being very expensive and of poor quality.

Hussain suggested that some matters are managed by provincial governments and that involving them could bring significant improvements.

Committee Chairman Senator Attaur Rehman agreed, suggesting a meeting with provincial governments and the chief secretary to develop a report.

Secretary Religious Affairs Zulfiqar Haider mentioned the creation of a directorate for pilgrims to Iraq and Iran, similar to the Hajj Directorate.

The Pakistan House project, initially part of the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP), was removed due to land allocation issues in Quetta. The committee resolved to conduct a thorough review with relevant institutions and chief secretaries and to create a comprehensive policy for addressing the issues faced by pilgrims.

It was noted that the quota for pilgrims traveling to and from India remains between 200 and 500, unchanged since 1974.

Senator Bushra Anjum Butt of PML-N emphasised that any new policy for pilgrims should consider the needs of women and children and ensure their safety and comfort.

The Federal Minister for Religious Affairs stated that steps are being taken to control the issues of people traveling illegally to other countries.

Regarding the printing of error-free copies of the Quran, it was reported that drafts have been shared with provinces for feedback. The committee was informed that the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee operates with only two ministry staff and an annual budget of Rs6.4 million.

A new policy for promoting interfaith harmony has been sent to the cabinet.

Senator Gurdeep Singh suggested that Sikh religious celebrations be recognised at the state level, similar to other religions. Finally, the committee reviewed the issues related to Hajj 2024, noting improvements and resolving complaints from pilgrims under the government scheme, while issues with private tour operators are being compiled for review.