On Thursday, Minister for Religious Affairs Chaudhary Salik Hussain addressed the National Assembly regarding recent updates. It was announced that each Pakistani pilgrim might receive a refund of Rs 100,000. This is due to the ongoing recounting process within the ministry.
During the Question Hour, the minister responded to several supplementary questions. It was highlighted that the current year’s Hajj expenses are already Rs 100,000 lower compared to the previous year. Additionally, a significant relief of approximately Rs 35,000 was provided to each Pakistani pilgrim in airfare costs for this year’s Hajj.
Clarifying further, the minister explained that for Hajj 2024, only 600 Moavineen were chosen through the NTS test, in contrast to the previously planned 1400 Moavineen-e-Hujjaj.
Regarding the Sikh pilgrims, the minister pointed out a decline in their numbers traveling to the Kartarpur Corridor. This reduction is attributed to the restrictions imposed by India. He assured that there are no obstacles on Pakistani pilgrim end, noting that the infrastructure at Kartarpur Corridor is equipped to accommodate up to 5,000 Sikh pilgrims daily.
Every year, the ministry arranges comprehensive support for Sikh Yatrees, including transportation and security, particularly for the Guru Nanak’s birth anniversary.
In addition, it is important to remember that Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is a revered pilgrimage. Each year, millions of Muslims from around the world travel to Makkah, located in present-day Saudi Arabia, to perform this sacred ritual.
