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ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 25th Apr, 2026) All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) senior leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) has slammed India over the sharp decline in the number of pilgrims allowed to perform Hajj from the territory, highlighting the oppressive restrictions imposed by the occupying authorities.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Mirwaiz in Srinagar said that this year witnessed one of the lowest turnouts of Hajj pilgrims from the occupied territory, reflecting both the ongoing restrictions and the growing hesitancy among the community.
He noted that many people are opting for Umrah instead or postponing their pilgrimage in hopes of more favorable conditions, such as cooler weather or easier travel arrangements.
He pointed to a growing trend in which people either choose Umrah over Hajj or delay the pilgrimage in hopes of more convenient conditions, such as cooler weather.
Mirwaiz also noted that many individuals postpone Hajj until they feel they have fulfilled all worldly responsibilities, calling this mindset an incorrect approach.
Emphasizing that while Umrah holds great spiritual significance, Mirwaiz stressed that Hajj remains an obligatory and fundamental pillar of islam for those who can afford it and should not be deferred unnecessarily. “Life and death are in the hands of Allah, and no one knows what tomorrow holds,” he said.
He highlighted that Hajj requires physical endurance and is best performed when a person is in good health and strength, underlining the importance of being prepared for the journey.
Mirwaiz urged Muslims to prioritize performing Hajj at a younger age if they are able, ensuring they can complete this vital religious duty with energy and devotion.
He called on the community to fulfill this fundamental obligation without unnecessary delay, reminding believers of the spiritual and religious significance of timely pilgrimage.
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