Srinagar, April 14 -- It is important to note that the decision comes after the Saudi Ministry of Haj and Umrah shut down access to the Nusuk portal-a mandatory online platform used to finalise contracts and services for pilgrims. The Saudi authorities cancelled Mina Zones 1 and 2, which had been allotted to CHGOs, due to the delays in payments and non-finalisation of service agreements. The remaining zones (3, 4 and 5) have also been held up, further worsening the situation.

Ruling and Opposition parties in J&K have come together to voice their concern after the reported cancellation and urged the central government to take up the matter with their leadership.

"The reported cancellation of Hajj slots for over 52,000 Indian pilgrims, ma...