Religious ministry recommends affidavit for Pakistani pilgrims, promising not to beg

Pakistan's Ministry of Religious Affairs has taken stringent measures to prevent professional beggars from traveling to Saudi Arabia under the guise of Umrah pilgrims.

The move comes after Saudi Arabia expressed concerns about the growing number of Pakistani beggars entering the kingdom.

To address this issue, the ministry has proposed an "Umrah Act" to regulate travel agencies facilitating Umrah trips, bringing them under legal oversight.

Additionally, pilgrims will be required to sign an affidavit promising not to engage in begging activities.

According to new regulations to curb begging, the ministry has recommended affidavit requirements from pilgrims before traveling, promising not to beg.

- Group Travel Only: Umrah pilgrims will only be allowed to travel in groups, not individually.

- Tour Operators' Responsibility: Tour operators will also be required to obtain affidavits from pilgrims.

- Strict Legal Action: Violators will face strict legal action.

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has been tasked with cracking down on the network responsible for sending beggars to Saudi Arabia.

The move aims to prevent damage to Pakistan's reputation in Saudi Arabia and ensure a smooth experience for genuine pilgrims.

Saudi Arabia has warned that if the situation is not controlled, it could negatively affect Pakistani Umrah and Hajj pilgrims.

The ministry has also asked the Pakistani government to find ways to prevent beggars from traveling to Saudi Arabia under the guise of religious pilgrimage.