Chief Minister Omar Abdullah welcomes first batch of Hujjaaj back to Srinagar

Srinagar, June 2: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today received the first contingent of Hujjaaj returning from Haj-2026 at Srinagar International Airport.

The incoming flight brought 144 pilgrims—74 men and 70 women. The Chief Minister greeted the returnees and congratulated them on completing the sacred pilgrimage. Speaking with the pilgrims, he said he hoped their prayers and spiritual experiences would help bring peace, prosperity and well-being to Jammu & Kashmir and the nation.

Omar Abdullah asked about the arrangements made for the pilgrims during their stay in Saudi Arabia and their return journey, and wished them good health and happiness. He also commended the departments and agencies involved in facilitating the smooth arrival and reception of the pilgrims and instructed authorities to ensure necessary assistance and amenities, including efficient baggage handling, transport and other support services.

The Chief Minister had earlier raised concerns about delayed baggage transportation with the Government of India and the Union Aviation Minister, urging timely and seamless handling.

This year 4,641 pilgrims from Jammu & Kashmir performed Haj; 3,952 are scheduled to return via the Srinagar embarkation point. Return flights are scheduled between June 2 and June 16, 2026.

Present at the airport were Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, Additional Chief Secretary Dheeraj Gupta, Deputy Commissioner Budgam Amir Athar Khan, senior civil administration officers, representatives of the Jammu & Kashmir Haj Committee, Airport Authority officials and other concerned agencies.