The Sindh High Court has issued notices to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and other parties in response to a petition filed by a travel agent seeking the dismissal of a case accusing him of sending beggars to Saudi Arabia under the guise of performing Umrah.

A two-member bench, headed by Justice Naimatullah Phulpoto, heard the petition from Muhammad Atta, a Multan-based travel agent, who requested the court to quash the charges against him.

During the hearing, the court inquired about the allegations against the petitioner. Muhammad Atta’s lawyer explained that the FIA had filed a case accusing his client of facilitating travel for individuals who went to Saudi Arabia not for Umrah, but to engage in begging. The agent allegedly arranged visas for five beggars.

The lawyer argued that although Muhammad Atta could book tickets, securing visas was beyond his responsibility. He further pointed out that Atta had already been acquitted in two similar cases registered in Multan and was now seeking dismissal of the Karachi case.

The court issued notices to the FIA and other respondents, asking for their response.

Saudi Concerns Over Pakistani Beggars Affecting Pilgrims

Earlier this month, the Saudi Ministry of Hajj raised concerns over the growing number of Pakistani beggars entering Saudi Arabia on Umrah visas, warning that it could disrupt the experience for genuine Umrah and Hajj pilgrims.

Saudi authorities communicated these concerns to Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs, urging immediate action to curb the practice. In response, Pakistani officials proposed introducing an “Umrah Act” to regulate travel agencies and enforce stricter oversight and accountability.

During a meeting between Pakistan’s Interior Minister, Mohsin Naqvi, and Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Ahmed Al-Malki, the Pakistani government promised to take firm action against the networks responsible for sending beggars under the pretense of religious pilgrimage. Mohsin Naqvi assured the Saudi ambassador that the FIA would intensify its efforts to dismantle these networks, which were damaging Pakistan’s international reputation.

As part of this crackdown, the FIA has already arrested several individuals involved in this illegal activity. Recently, the agency offloaded 11 suspected beggars from a Saudi-bound flight at Karachi airport. Upon interrogation, the suspects admitted that their intention was to beg in Saudi Arabia.

The increasing involvement of Pakistani beggars in such activities has also raised concerns among Gulf nations, including Saudi Arabia, about the behavior and ethics of some overseas Pakistanis, further tarnishing the country’s image abroad.