Haj
Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf has assured the nation that the government is making all possible efforts to ensure the maximum number of Pakistani pilgrims can undertake the Haj pilgrimage this year.
In a televised appearance on program Naya Pakistan, the minister provided updates on recent developments and addressed public concerns surrounding the private Haj quota and travel arrangements.
Earlier this year, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed the annual Haj agreement, which allocated a quota of 179,210 pilgrims from Pakistan. Of this total, approximately 90,000 were to perform Haj under the government scheme, with the remainder allowed to do so privately.
However, a notification issued by the Ministry of Religious Affairs last week sparked confusion and concern, as it stated that only 23,620 pilgrims would be allowed to perform Haj privately, leaving tens of thousands of prospective pilgrims in uncertainty.
Minister Yousaf acknowledged the issue, stating that the government is doing its utmost to facilitate as many pilgrims as possible. “We are trying to enable as many of the 179,210 pilgrims to travel for Haj,” he said, noting that the arrangements for those under the government scheme are already complete.
Yousaf highlighted his recent visit to Saudi Arabia, undertaken with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s approval, during which he met with the Saudi Haj minister to discuss extending the procedural deadlines. “We requested an extension so our pilgrims are not left behind,” he said.
Following diplomatic engagements, including a request to Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to liaise with his Saudi counterpart, an additional 10,000 private Haj slots were granted to Pakistan.
He further clarified that this logistical issue was not unique to Pakistan. “This is happening in other countries as well,” he said, citing the example of India, where over 50,000 aspiring pilgrims have faced similar challenges.
When questioned about refunds for those who may not be able to travel, the minister affirmed that financial transactions made through proper channels are officially recorded, and that pilgrims are entitled to a refund if they are unable to proceed with the journey. “Every operator is responsible, and that money is part of the official record,” he stated.
Haj remains one of Islam’s five pillars and a deeply spiritual experience for Muslims worldwide. With one of the highest quotas globally, Pakistan’s successful facilitation of this year’s pilgrimage is seen as both a logistical and diplomatic priority.
