SRINAGAR, April 16, 2025 – The Jammu and Kashmir government has deputed 36 police officers to the Consulate General of India in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to serve as Haj Officers and Haj Superintendents during the Hajj-2025 pilgrimage, expected to take place from June 4 to June 9, 2025. The selection, which includes three Superintendents of Police , follows recommendations from the Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India, with approvals from J&K Police Headquarters and the Criminal Investigation Department , J&K.
The officers, drawn from various ranks, will provide logistical and supervisory support to Indian pilgrims during the sacred Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca. Their roles include ensuring smooth coordination, assisting with crowd management, and addressing pilgrims’ needs, leveraging their experience in high-pressure environments. The Home Department’s order, issued on April 15, 2025, sanctions advance Travelling Allowance for the officers to cover travel to New Delhi for formalities scheduled on April 21, 2025, before their departure to Saudi Arabia.
This deputation marks a significant contribution by J&K Police to international coordination, reflecting their expertise in managing large-scale events like the Amarnath Yatra. The officers are expected to work closely with Saudi authorities and the CGI to ensure a safe and organised pilgrimage for Indian Hajis, particularly amid tightened Saudi regulations, including mandatory Hajj permits and an 80% cut in India’s private Hajj quota, affecting over 52,000 pilgrims.
The Ministry of Minority Affairs secured a total Hajj quota of 1,75,025 for Indian pilgrims in 2025, with 1,22,517 slots managed by the Haj Committee of India and 10,000 additional private slots restored after diplomatic efforts. J&K leaders, including Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, had urged intervention to address the quota reduction, highlighting the distress caused to pilgrims.
The officers’ deployment underscores J&K’s commitment to supporting the Hajj pilgrimage, a key pillar of Islam, while strengthening India-Saudi bilateral ties. For updates, pilgrims and families can refer to the Ministry of Minority Affairs’ announcements or the J&K Police website.
