Only 25,698 private pilgrims to perform Hajj this year

Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Yusuf said on Monday that thousands of Pakistani pilgrims may be unable to perform Hajj this year due to the negligence and delays caused by private tour operators.

Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, the minister stated that Pakistan was allocated a Hajj quota of 179,000 pilgrims, evenly split between the government and private sectors. He noted that while the Ministry of Religious Affairs handled all arrangements for the official Hajj scheme efficiently, the private sector failed to meet key deadlines set by Saudi authorities.

Sardar Yusuf revealed that private operators did not act promptly, missing the February 14 deadline to deposit 25% of the required funds. Although Saudi Arabia granted a one-week extension, the operators again failed to comply. As a result, many pilgrims under the private scheme may not be able to travel.

The minister said he requested additional time from Saudi authorities after learning of the issue, but emphasised that Saudi Hajj policies apply uniformly across countries.

Eventually, a reduced quota of 10,000 was granted to the private sector, allowing 25,698 pilgrims to travel through private arrangements this year.

An inquiry committee formed by the Prime Minister is currently investigating the matter. Action will be taken against those found responsible for the mismanagement, Sardar Yusuf added.

He confirmed that Hajj flights would continue until May 31 and that all pilgrims under the government scheme were being provided accommodation in Aziziyah, with efforts underway to ensure equal facilities for all.