Govt Hajj Scheme Likely to Be Abolished from 2026
Govt Hajj scheme likely to end by 2026 as private operators are set to manage Hajj arrangements. Federal cabinet approves reduction in Hajj companies, aligning with Saudi policies.
Dec 31, 2024
Reporter: Imtiaz Ali Abbasi
Posted by: The largest English Digital News Network
The Senate Standing Committee on Religious Affairs has indicated that the government's direct involvement in Hajj management may be abolished by 2026, with private operators expected to take over Hajj arrangements.
Shift to Private Operators
During a meeting chaired by Maulana Atta-ur-Rehman, Secretary of the Ministry of Religious Affairs Dr. Zulfiqar Haider briefed the committee on ongoing Hajj arrangements. He emphasized:
- The ministry’s plan to gradually transition Hajj management to private operators.
- Private operators must withdraw court cases and comply with legal requirements to retain their quotas.
- A formal agreement with the ministry is crucial for private operators to avoid financial and operational risks.
The secretary warned that without compliance, private operators' Hajj quotas may be revoked, potentially reallocated to neighboring countries like India or Afghanistan.
Challenges with Advance Payments
Private Hajj operators raised concerns during the meeting, stating they had sent advance payments to Saudi Arabia for Hajj arrangements without formal agreements with the ministry.
The committee highlighted several key points:
- Sending funds without formal contracts is illegal.
- Operators face the risk of losing their quotas if issues are not resolved within four days.
- The lack of official agreements could result in financial losses and embarrassment for Pakistan on an international level.
Senator Dr. Afnan Ullah echoed these concerns, stressing the urgency of finalizing agreements to secure Pakistan’s Hajj quotas.
Cabinet Decisions
The federal cabinet has approved reducing the number of Hajj companies, aligning with agreements made with Saudi Arabia. The cabinet has clarified that it is not in a position to revise the existing Hajj policy.
The Secretary of Religious Affairs reiterated the importance of adhering to Saudi Arabian policies, urging private operators to work closely with the ministry.
Future Implications
The government’s plan to step back from Hajj management marks a significant shift in policy. If private operators meet compliance requirements, this transition could be implemented by 2026, ensuring a more streamlined and efficient process for Pakistani pilgrims.
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Keywords:
Govt Hajj scheme 2026, Pakistan Hajj policy, private Hajj operators Pakistan, Senate Standing Committee on Religious Affairs, Hajj quota agreements.
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