Ladakh BJP delegation meets Union Minister Kiren Rijiju

Kargil, Jan 21: A BJP delegation from Ladakh met Union Minister for Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, urging urgent intervention to ensure the safety of Ladakhi citizens currently residing in Iran amid concerns over the evolving regional situation.

The delegation informed the Minister that hundreds of Ladakhi citizens, particularly from Kargil, including religious scholars (tullab), students, pilgrims, and other residents, are presently in Iran. In view of the evolving regional situation, concerns and anxiety have arisen among families across Ladakh. The delegation urged immediate diplomatic and administrative measures to ensure safety, timely assistance, and preparedness for evacuation if required, reiterating that the protection of Indian citizens abroad remains a top priority of the Government.

The Union Minister assured that the Government of India is closely monitoring the situation and that necessary steps will be taken in coordination with the concerned authorities, as required.

During the meeting, the delegation also raised issues related to Haj 2026, including arrangements and facilitation for pilgrims from UT Ladakh, to which the Minister gave a patient hearing and assured appropriate consideration. The delegation included Mohd Ali Majaz, Chairman, Haj Committee UT Ladakh; Mohd Ali Chandan, BJP State Secretary & Former EC LAHDC Kargil; Mirza Hussain, Former Councillor LAHDC Leh; and Nazir Ahmad, Member, Haj Committee Ladakh.