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Rescue 600 Stranded Pilgrims from Saudi Arabia: CM D.K. Shivakumar Appeals to Centre

By Editor

Posted on October 24, 2026

Rescue 600 Stranded Pilgrims from Saudi Arabia: CM D.K. Shivakumar Appeals to Centre

Bengaluru : In light of the security crisis and escalating tensions across the Middle East, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has urged the Union Government to take immediate measures to safely evacuate over 600 Umrah pilgrims from Karnataka currently stranded in Mecca and Medina, Saudi Arabia.

Chief Minister Shivakumar addressed a letter to External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar on Friday regarding the situation. He highlighted that the temporary suspension of flights to Bengaluru and other Indian cities by local authorities has left more than 600 Karnataka pilgrims helpless without clear travel options.

The Chairman of the Karnataka State Hajj Committee and his team, who recently visited the holy sites, briefed the Chief Minister about the ground situation. Due to flight disruptions, many pilgrims are facing severe distress, running out of funds, and struggling to secure basic necessities like food and shelter.

Hotels are reportedly pressuring the stranded pilgrims to vacate their rooms, creating immense anxiety among senior citizens, women, and children. Although local Indian and Karnataka non-governmental organizations are offering temporary assistance, their resources are insufficient to meet the needs of all the affected individuals.

Urging prompt diplomatic intervention, Chief Minister Shivakumar requested that the Ministry of External Affairs coordinate through the Indian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General of India in Jeddah. He urged them to work alongside Saudi authorities, airlines, and relevant agencies to ensure the immediate and safe return of the stranded citizens.

Furthermore, he requested the Ministry to arrange special evacuation flights if necessary and provide essential relief until every pilgrim returns safely. Emphasizing the gravity of the situation, the Chief Minister assured that the Karnataka state government is prepared to extend full cooperation and assistance in this rescue effort.