Chaudhry Salik Hussain denies reports of 50,000 Pakistani pilgrims missing in Iraq

Chaudhry Salik Hussain, the Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, on Saturday, firmly denied recent media reports suggesting the disappearance of 50,000 Pakistani pilgrims (Zaireen) in Iraq.

Addressing the controversy, Minister Hussain clarified that he made no such statement during a recent Senate committee meeting, calling the reports "entirely false and misleading."

He emphasised the importance of accurate reporting and urged media outlets to verify information before publishing.

Read also: Nearly 50,000 Pakistani pilgrims disappear in Iraq: minister

The Minister explained that Pakistani pilgrims travel to Iraq for religious pilgrimages, known as Ziarat, primarily through private operators.

He maintained the Ministry is actively working towards improving the facilitation process for these pilgrims, ensuring their safety and well-being during their spiritual journey.

Minister Hussain reaffirmed the government's dedication to safeguarding the interests of Pakistani pilgrims abroad, urging responsible journalism to prevent unnecessary panic and misinformation.