3 Chohan Youth Stranded in Najaf Ahead of Arbaeen Walk, Families Appeal for Sindh Govt’s Help
Dr. Abdul Waheed Mastoi
Sukkur
In an unfortunate turn of events, three young members of the Chohan community have been stranded at Najaf International Airport, Iraq, just days before the annual Arbaeen walk. Families and community members are now urging the Sindh Government to step in for their safe return.
According to details, the stranded youths are Mazhar Ali (son of Badurddin Chohan), Abdul Malik (son of Shokat Ali Chohan), and Zeeshan Ali (son of Muhammad Ali Malik). They had initially approached a travel facilitator, Salar, known for arranging religious tours to Iran and Iraq. However, instead of finalizing arrangements through him, they booked their own tickets directly.
Upon arrival in Najaf, Iraqi authorities reportedly stopped them, asking for clearance from Salar Aftab Mirza. Without this, they were not allowed to proceed further towards Karbala for the Arbaeen pilgrimage.
The situation has caused distress among families and the broader Chohan community. In Sukkur, hundreds gathered on Miani Road to protest, demanding immediate action. Prominent members including Advocate Ameer Bux Chohan, Advocate Daud Chohan, Shokat Chohan, and Nawaz Chohan voiced concerns about the safety of the three youths.
The protesters have appealed to senior Sindh minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah to urgently intervene so that the pilgrims can join the sacred walk and safely return home.
Community elders emphasized that the Arbaeen pilgrimage carries deep spiritual and emotional importance for Shiite Muslims worldwide, and missing it would be a devastating loss for the stranded pilgrims.
