Senator Allama Raja Nasir Abbas condemns restriction as unconstitutional, vows sit-ins until policy reversed
ISLAMABAD | July 29, 2025 — The Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen (MWM) has announced nationwide peaceful protests and sit-ins in response to the federal government’s decision to ban by-road travel for pilgrims intending to perform the Arbaeen pilgrimage in Iran and Iraq.
Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, MWM chief Senator Allama Raja Nasir Abbas termed the restriction “unconstitutional, unethical, and unacceptable,” arguing that it infringes on citizens’ right to religious freedom under Article 20 of the Constitution.
“We will not accept any illegal or immoral act that denies our community the freedom to practice its faith,” he stated.
Billions Lost, Rights Denied
The MWM leader said that pilgrims across Pakistan — including from Gilgit-Baltistan to Karachi — had collectively invested over Rs50 billion in preparations for the pilgrimage, including tickets, visas, accommodation, and logistics, all of which now stand in jeopardy due to the abrupt policy shift.
He lambasted the Ministry of Religious Affairs for citing “missing pilgrims” as justification, demanding a public apology and dismissing the claim as false and disrespectful.
Lack of Consultation and Contradictory Messaging
Senator Abbas criticised the government for imposing the ban without consulting religious leaders or community stakeholders, especially after recent high-level meetings between Pakistani officials and authorities in Iran and Iraq, which had promised facilitation for pilgrims.
“If there are security concerns, then the state must offer a viable alternative route or safety guarantees, not strip citizens of their rights,” he said.
He also pointed out earlier failures, reminding the public that 67,000 Pakistani pilgrims were deprived of Hajj earlier this year due to administrative shortcomings.
Protests Begin Nationwide
Calling the decision an act of religious discrimination, Senator Abbas announced the launch of peaceful demonstrations and sit-ins across the country. The protests, he said, will continue until the road ban is lifted or an acceptable alternative is provided.
“From Gilgit-Baltistan to Karachi, the community will stand united in protest,” he added.
Government’s Justification
Two days prior, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced the suspension of all overland pilgrimages to Iran and Iraq, citing security threats. However, critics argue that the sudden ban undermines months of preparation and sows distrust between the state and its citizens.
Each year, around 700,000 Pakistani pilgrims travel to Iraq for Arbaeen, the largest annual religious gathering in the world, which commemorates the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) forty days after Ashura.
