Srinagar, April 11 -- However, the officials clarified that this move was a routine pre-Hajj measure and will not affect the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage from India, including Jammu & Kashmir.

Executive Officer of the J&K State Haj Committee, Dr Shujaat Ahmad Qureshi, clarified that the ban applies specifically to Umrah, tourist and visiting visas and has been enforced in coordination with multiple countries.

The senior officer said that this decision will prevent the misuse of Umrah or visit visas by individuals, attempting to perform Hajj illegally-a problem that affected accommodations and logistics in previous years.

"Last year, those who went on Umrah or other visas often stayed back and performed Hajj without authorisation, which led...