Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday morning saw off the first group of Hajj pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir at the Sheikh-ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar.
In a post shared by the Office of the J&K CM on social media platform X, the Chief Minister as per news agency JKNS said, “Today, I had the honour of bidding a warm see-off to the first batch of 178 Hajj pilgrims from Sheikh-ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar. Wished them a safe, fulfilling journey and humbly requested prayers for peace and prosperity in our region.”
Office of LG J&k in a post on X wrote, Flagged off first batch of Haj pilgrims of the UT of J&K from Srinagar International Airport. Extended my greetings & best wishes to pilgrims for a safe pilgrimage and a truly fulfilling spiritual experience. I pray for peace and prosperity of J&K UT and well-being of one & all.
The divine pilgrimage is a call from almighty and a cherished and life-long dream. The central government is committed to ensure best possible arrangements for well-being of pilgrims and their sacred pilgrimage, post reads.
Earlier, emotional scenes unfolded at Haj House Bemina where hundreds of people gathered before dawn to bid farewell to their loved ones. Many pilgrims were embarking on the sacred journey for the first time.
According to details accessed by JKNS, the batch comprises 96 male and 82 female pilgrims. The flight bearing number SG-5304 was scheduled to depart later in the day from Srinagar airport.
As the buses departed from the Haj House, the air resonated with chants of “Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik,” leaving many in tears.
“This is a dream come true. May Allah accept our Hajj and keep our families in His protection,” said an elderly pilgrim from Srinagar.
Officials informed that over 3,600 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir are expected to perform Hajj this year under the government quota.
Authorities have appealed to all pilgrims to adhere strictly to airline guidelines, especially those concerning baggage restrictions and prohibited items.
A young man who accompanied his mother said, “She waited decades for this moment. Watching her leave was both overwhelming and beautiful.”
A smiling female pilgrim shared her feelings with JKNS: “I’m so happy. May Allah protect Kashmir from all harm.” (JKNS)
