Hassan Cheruppa Saudi Gazette JEDDAH — The Indian consulate's ongoing efforts to facilitate the return of illegal nationals before the expiry of the July 3 deadline have not affected the mission's preparations for the coming Haj season, said Consul General Faiz Ahmed Kidwai. Speaking to Saudi Gazette, he said all preparations and arrangements are on track and are progressing well as per schedule. “We have almost finished leasing buildings for pilgrims' accommodation,” he said. This year's Haj will tentatively begin on Oct. 13. Replying to a question about the Saudi government's move to reduce the number of foreign pilgrims by 20 percent, he said: “We understand this is because of the special situation created by the ongoing expansion of the Two Holy Mosques, the largest in history, particularly the mataf (circumambulation area) expansion. This issue does not come under the domain of the Indian consulate which undertakes the Haj operation only after the arrival of pilgrims in the holy cities until their departure,” he said while noting that it is the Indian government that will make a final decision on the matter in accordance with the quota of pilgrims allotted by the Saudi government. “Our duty is only to make available accommodation and other services for pilgrims. If there is a quota reduction, then we have to cut down the number of rented buildings in the holy cities,” he added. Kidwai said a reduction in individual countries' pilgrim quotas will free up residential facilities for pilgrims. Referring to a question about an earlier move to lease residential buildings in Makkah and Madinah on a long term basis, he said: “A panel, appointed by the government of India, is carrying out studies on the proposal. We have even surveyed several buildings but are waiting for the outcome of the study, and we will finalize everything when the government of India takes a decision on this issue.” Kidwai confirmed reports about limiting the validity of Umrah visas by Saudi authorities. There have been specific instructions from the Saudi authorities to Saudi missions abroad as well as to Umrah agencies in the Kingdom to adhere to 14:14:14 equations. “Under this system Umrah visa needs to be stamped within 14 days of issuance, and pilgrims should set out for the pilgrimage within 14 days of receiving their visa. The validity of the visa is 14 days,” he added.
