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Steps being taken to make Hajj economical, comfortable for pilgrims: Talha

Islamabad: Minister for Religious Affairs Senator Talha Mahmood says effective measures are being taken to make this year Hajj safe, economical and comfortable for the pilgrims.

He was speaking at a meeting of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Religious Affairs which met in Islamabad with MNA Pir Syed Imran Shah in the chair.

Senator Talha Mahmood said the amount deposited by the pilgrims for Hajj is safe and he will not allow anybody to use it for their personal gains.

The Minister said he has made it clear in the parliament that there will be no free of cost Hajj for anyone this year and assured the committee that no complain in this connection will be received.

Addressing the meeting, MNA Shahida Akhtar appreciated the announcement by the Minister in the parliament about closing the free of cost Hajj this year.

In her remarks, MNA Shagufta Jumani lauded the Minister for Religious Affairs for his tireless efforts to ensure best facilities for the Hajj pilgrims.

The meeting also offered Fateha for the departed soul of late Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Mufti Abdul Shakoor, who died in a road accident in Islamabad last month.

The Minister today also visited Haji Camp and inaugurated the newly established booth of Allied Bank Limited (ABL) aimed at providing convenient financial services to the intending pilgrims.

To mark the occasion, Senator Talha also participated in a cake-cutting ceremony, symbolizing the beginning of this new facility.

The minister also addressed the Hajj assistants, emphasizing the significance of their role in serving the pilgrims and said, “Pilgrims are guests of Allah Almighty, and their service should be a matter of utmost happiness for us.”

He encouraged the assistants to focus on their training, as it would equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to assist the pilgrims effectively.

He said there would be no tolerance for negligence during their duty emphasizing the importance of maintaining professionalism and ensuring the pilgrims’ well-being at all times. “We expect complete dedication from all the assistants,” the minister asserted.

In a stern tone, Senator Talha warned that any absence from Hajj duty would result in fines as this measure would ensure the presence of all assigned assistants during the crucial pilgrimage period.

He emphasized the responsibility entrusted to them and the need for punctuality and commitment.

Additionally, he announced that on receiving repeated complaints about any assistant’s conduct or performance, immediate action would be taken. Those found guilty of misconduct or negligence would be sent back to the pavilion without delay, the clarified.

The senator stressed the significance of maintaining a high standard of service and ensuring the pilgrims’ satisfaction throughout their Hajj journey.

Director Hajj Haseeb Ahmed Siddiqui informed that the ministry had tried its level best to properly educate and train the intending pilgrims and as well as the Moavineen-e-Hujjaj for smooth sailing of Hajj operation.

He was of the view that the ministry had made all out efforts to arrange good residence, quality food, modern transport and other required services for the intending pilgrims.

Senator Talha’s visit to the Haji Camp and the inauguration of the Allied Bank booth signifies the government’s commitment to facilitating Hajj pilgrims and ensuring a smooth and successful pilgrimage experience.

The minister’s strong directives regarding the assistants’ duties and the consequences of any negligence demonstrate the government’s determination to prioritize the well-being and comfort of the pilgrims.