Karnataka Government Steps In to Assist Over 600 Umrah Pilgrims Stranded in Saudi Arabia
Bengaluru: The Karnataka government has taken swift action to assist more than 600 Umrah pilgrims from the state who are stranded in Makkah and Madina following the suspension of flight services amid the prevailing situation in the Middle East.
Akasa Air, IndiGo, Flynas and Air India Express have suspended flights from Jeddah and Riyadh to Bengaluru and other destinations in India, leaving the pilgrims facing considerable difficulties in returning home.
Upon learning of the situation, a team comprising the chairman, executive officer and members of the Karnataka State Haj Committee was deputed to Makkah and Madina. The team met the pilgrims and assessed the situation on the ground.
A meeting was also held with voluntary organisations serving the Indian community in Makkah and Madina. With their cooperation, arrangements have been made to provide the stranded pilgrims with free food, medicines and accommodation.
The state government has also taken up the matter with the Centre. A letter has been sent to the Chief Minister requesting directions to the concerned authorities to arrange special flights for the safe return of the pilgrims. Through Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation has also been urged to restore flight operations at the earliest.
The government has maintained that airlines which transport passengers abroad on advance-booked tickets have a responsibility to ensure their safe return. The concerned airlines have been formally reminded of this responsibility in writing.
Meanwhile, consultations are underway with legal experts on the possibility of filing a public interest litigation (PIL) in the Supreme Court through the Haj Committee against airlines that have allegedly failed to fulfil their obligations. A decision on the matter is expected shortly.
Pilgrims and their family members seeking information or assistance can contact the Karnataka State Haj Committee at the following numbers: 94835 03132, 78997 07775
The government has assured pilgrims and their families that their safety and well-being remain its foremost priority and that all necessary efforts are being made to facilitate their safe return.
Source: Statement shared by U.T. Khader on X.