The Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has expressed serious concern over the lack of facilities provided to Pakistani Hajj pilgrims and has summoned officials from the Ministry of Religious Affairs on July 4 to address the issue.
During a PAC meeting chaired by Chairman Noor Alam Khan, criticism was directed towards the performance of Religious Affairs Minister Talha Mehmood, emphasizing the need for effective action in his capacity as the minister. Chairman Noor, sharing his disappointment, stated that he had witnessed the plight of the pilgrims through videos and written complaints he had received.
Surprisingly, despite the presence of the minister and the entire ministry staff during this year’s Hajj, the conditions were found to be poor. In contrast, Chairman Noor acknowledged the effective management of the previous minister, the late Mufti Abdul Shakoor, who had received no complaints during his tenure.
One of the main issues highlighted was the troubles faced by the pilgrims, despite having paid Rs1.2 million to the government for their Hajj journey. Problems such as accommodation, food, and transportation in the holy lands were reported by the pilgrims. Chairman Noor called for prompt action from the President, Dr. Arif Alvi, and the Federal Minister Talha Mehmood to address the situation and alleviate the sufferings of the pilgrims.
Furthermore, Chairman Noor also drew attention to the actions of private Hajj operators, who had charged Rs2.5 million from each pilgrim but failed to provide the promised facilities. He demanded the cancellation of their licenses and urged the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to investigate the matter thoroughly.
During the PAC meeting, Chairman Noor also discussed increasing the salaries of the parliamentarians. He noted that those who already received a salary of Rs1.5 million had been granted a 300 percent increase. The Auditor General of Pakistan, Ajmal Gondal, informed the committee that the finance ministry could raise the budget if the National Assembly secretary submitted a letter requesting the increase. Chairman Noor emphasized that the finance ministry should follow the law and implement the necessary changes.
As the PAC addresses the issues faced by Pakistani Hajj pilgrims, it is crucial that prompt action is taken to ensure their well-being and alleviate their hardships. The government should work closely with the Ministry of Religious Affairs to improve the facilities and services provided to the pilgrims, ensuring a more comfortable and fulfilling Hajj experience. Additionally, the matter of private Hajj operators charging exorbitant fees without delivering the promised benefits must be thoroughly investigated and appropriate action must be taken to protect the rights and interests of the pilgrims.
It is hoped that these concerns are addressed promptly and effectively, ensuring that future Hajj journeys for Pakistani pilgrims are marked by improved facilities and services, allowing them to observe their religious duties with peace of mind and without any unnecessary difficulties.
