Pakistani lawmakers have condemned the government for the appalling treatment of the country’s Haj pilgrims in Mecca. MNAs Shagufta Jumani and Shahida Rehmani exposed mismanagement, citing broken suitcases, inedible food, and lack of care for pilgrims.

Jumani pleaded for intervention, while Rehmani said her own family members suffered due to unhygienic food and poor arrangements.

Despite PM Shehbaz Sharif’s promises, coordination with Saudi authorities remains weak. Of 179,210 allocated Haj slots, only 14,000 private applications were approved.

Adding to the chaos, Saudi Arabia issued stern warnings and penalties for illegal Haj attempts, citing frequent violations by Pakistani citizens, including beggars and unauthorized visitors.