KARACHI( The COW News Digital ) The federal and provincial governments of Pakistan, along with the leadership of Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen (MWM), have reached a seven-point agreement to postpone this year’s Arbaeen March, citing prevailing security concerns. The decision was announced during a joint press conference attended by Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, Sindh Governor, leaders of MWM, and Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM).
Talal Chaudhry, who arrived in Karachi on the special directive of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, stated that the restriction on the pilgrims’ long walk was a “painful but unavoidable decision” aimed at ensuring their safety. “Given the current year’s sensitive circumstances, we had no choice but to take this precautionary measure,” he said.
The Sindh Governor revealed that he had met with pilgrims late last night and conveyed their concerns directly to the federal government. Following extensive discussions, all parties agreed on a seven-point plan to address the issues raised by the pilgrims.
Key Points of the Agreement:
- Special flight operations for pilgrims will commence within two days.
- Refunds will be ensured for advance bus fares already paid.
- The Iraqi government will be contacted to extend visa validity for pilgrims.
- Alternative arrangements for overland travel will be considered.
- Immediate directives will be issued for students stranded at the border.
- The government will formally apologize to pilgrims for halting the march.
- A permanent coordination committee will be established to resolve pilgrims’ issues.
MWM Vice Chairman Allama Ahmed Iqbal Rizvi confirmed the postponement of the “Karwan-e-Azadari” and expressed full trust in the agreement with the government. He stressed that all Muslims hold deep reverence for Imam Hussain (AS), and the pilgrimage—whether by air, sea, or land—will continue for eternity. He also praised the Sindh Governor’s mediation efforts.
The pilgrims’ primary demands included visa extensions, discounted air travel, and reimbursement of expenses already incurred. The government has assured full cooperation in these matters.
Talal Chaudhry emphasized that the restrictions applied this year were an exceptional measure, and there would be no limitations on pilgrims’ journeys in the future. “Our commitment is to ensure that such inconvenience is never repeated,” he concluded.
The agreement is seen as a significant step toward maintaining peace and ensuring the safety of religious gatherings amid heightened security challenges in the region.
