Chicago – November 20, 2025
In the wake of the tragic bus accident near Medina that claimed the lives of 45 Indian pilgrims, a high-level delegation from the Government of Telangana, led by Minister for Minorities Welfare and former Indian cricketer Mohammad Azharuddin, has coordinated with central and Saudi authorities to assist with formalities and support the affected families.
Acting on the instructions of the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Telangana, Shri Revanth Reddy, the delegation includes MLA Majid Hussain and Secretary B. Shafiullah, alongside Azharuddin. The team held an important meeting with representatives from the Government of India, headed by Shri S. Abdul Nazeer, Hon’ble Governor of Andhra Pradesh, and Shri Arun Kumar Chatterjee, Secretary (CPV & OIA), Ministry of External Affairs. Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan, India’s Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, also participated in the discussions.
The focus of the meeting was to expedite all necessary procedures following the fatal incident and ensure dignified last rites for the deceased pilgrims. The funeral is expected to take place on Friday at Jannat-ul-Baqi in Madinah Shareef, pending completion of formalities.
Minister Azharuddin expressed his deep condolences to the bereaved families and commended the swift cooperation of Saudi officials. He emphasized the Telangana government’s commitment to extending full assistance to the families of the victims and coordinating closely with the Indian Embassy to ensure a smooth process.
The Government of Telangana extended its gratitude to the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its continuous support and prompt response in managing the aftermath of the tragedy.
