LAHORE:
The Ulama Council of Pakistan, Darul Ifta Pakistan and the International Tazeem-e-Haramain Sharifain Council have issued a comprehensive code of conduct for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, urging strict compliance with Saudi regulations and preservation of the sanctity of the holy sites.
The guidelines were announced at a press conference in Lahore led by Chairman of Pakistan Ulema Council and Secretary General of International Tazeem-e-Haramain Council Sharifain, Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi, along with eminent scholars and religious leaders.
Addressing the gathering, Ashrafi stressed that pilgrims must respect the sanctity of the two holy mosques and fully comply with the rules and regulations issued by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
He said performing Hajj without a valid permit is both religiously prohibited and illegal, urging those residing in Saudi Arabia to avoid undertaking Hajj without official permission.
Scholars have advised pilgrims to acquire complete knowledge of the rituals of Hajj and Umrah before departure to avoid difficulties during the holy journey. They stressed that Saudi Arabia continually strives to facilitate pilgrimages and therefore it is obligatory for visitors to cooperate with authorities and follow the prescribed code of conduct.
Pilgrims were also asked to avoid engaging in political activities during the Hajj and not to participate in such efforts, warning that such actions could disrupt the peaceful environment of the holy sites.
The code further warns against booking travel through unregistered or unauthorized Hajj and Umrah operators, including informal online groups.
