ISLAMABAD: A recommendation by the National Assembly Standing Committee on Religious Affairs to fund annual Hajj-related travel for lawmakers from the national treasury has ignited widespread debate, as critics question priorities amid economic hardship.
During a meeting in Islamabad on Monday, the committee proposed sending a 10-member parliamentary delegation every year during Rabiul Awwal to the holy sites, with all expenses covered by public funds.
Committee Chairperson Shagufta Jumani said the delegation would offer prayers at Rauza-e-Rasool on the 12th of Rabiul Awwal for the prosperity and progress of Pakistan. She defended the proposal, arguing that spending public money for this purpose would not burden poor citizens and that prayers at holy places would bring national blessings.
The committee also recommended increasing the delegation size from seven to 10 members and suggested that the National Assembly Secretariat, rather than individual lawmakers, bear the expenses. In addition, members demanded that each parliamentarian be allocated a personal Hajj quota of 10 people, a move that would significantly expand lawmakers’ influence over Hajj arrangements.
Government response and official clarification
Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Yousaf informed the committee that the Hajj quota process for the current year had already concluded. However, he assured members that the recommendations could be considered for implementation starting in 2027.
The proposals drew sharp criticism from the public, with many questioning why elected representatives should travel on public funds while poverty and economic strain persist. Critics argued that religious obligations should be funded privately and described the proposal as reflecting misplaced priorities.
Amid the backlash, the National Assembly spokesperson issued a clarification, stating that no MNA currently receives Hajj or Umrah facilities at government expense. The spokesperson explained that parliamentary delegations visiting Rauza-e-Rasool bear their own costs, while the Ministry of Religious Affairs only provides administrative facilitation. No proposal for state-funded travel has been approved, the spokesperson added.
