KARACHI: On Thursday, the Ministry of Religious Affairs finalized the balloting for the 2024 Hajj applications. The event, which took place at the Karachi Press Club, was overseen by caretaker minister Aniq Ahmed.
A total of 69,438 individuals submitted applications for Hajj, and after the balloting process, the names of 63,805 people were confirmed.
The remaining 5,633 applicants have been placed on a waiting list sorted by city. These individuals may secure a slot if any of the successful candidates opt to cancel their applications.
Notification of successful applications will be conveyed tonight (Thursday) through SMS, the official website, and a mobile app.
Minister Ahmed disclosed that 56% of the successful candidates were women, while 44% were men. He emphasized that the balloting was conducted through a transparent process.
Furthermore, Ahmed announced that all women participating in Hajj would be provided with an abaya featuring the Pakistani flag. Additionally, each pilgrim will receive a suitcase equipped with a QR code, and a generous data allocation of 7 GBs.
Pakistan Declares Nationwide Ban On New Year Celebrations In Solidarity With Palestinians
Meanwhile, caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar declared on Thursday that all New Year celebrations are prohibited across Pakistan as a demonstration of solidarity with the Palestinians facing severe Israeli aggression since October 7.
Pakistan, consistently advocating for the oppressed Palestinians on the global stage, has condemned Israel’s actions, resulting in numerous casualties. Kakar, in a televised address, stated, “The Pakistani nation is in a somber state,” and in light of the situation, the government decided to ban New Year celebrations.
He appealed to all Pakistanis to show solidarity with the Palestinians and urged simplicity during the new year. Kakar emphasized the catastrophic nature of the ongoing war.
Israel’s persistent air and ground offensive against Hamas have devastated large parts of Gaza, resulting in a death toll of at least 21,320, predominantly affecting women and children.
