In a significant development, Hujjaj who participated in the Hajj 2023 to get a refund of Rs. 185,000, thanks to the efforts of Senator Muhammad Talha Mahmood, the federal minister for religious affairs. The news disclosed during a meeting at the Parliament House, where representatives from the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony provided vital information to the Standing Committee on Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony.
According to the details shared, under the standard Hajj Scheme, each pilgrim had paid Rs. 1,175,000 for their journey. However, before departing for Saudi Arabia, they received a partial refund of Rs. 55,000. Meanwhile, those who participated in the Hajj under the hardship quota required to deposit Rs. 1,120,000.
The committee informed that the government now decided to reimburse Hujjaj who did not reside in Madina Al Munawarra’s Markazia with Rs. 12,000 per head. Similarly, those who did not take the train between Makkah and Madina would receive a refund of Rs. 21,000 per person. Additionally, each Hujjaj who performed the Hajj in 2023 would be eligible for a refund of Rs. 97,000.
In light of these reimbursements, pilgrims under the standard system will receive an impressive total refund of up to Rs. 185,000 per head, providing some much-needed financial relief to the Hujjaj.
Syed Imran Ahmad Shah, the chairman of the standing committee, presided over the meeting, commending Senator Muhammad Talha Mahmood for his remarkable efforts in ensuring the welfare of the pilgrims. The decision to grant substantial refunds to the Hujjaj reflects the government’s commitment to supporting religious harmony and facilitating the pilgrimage journey for all citizens.
With this refund, the government seeks to promote interfaith harmony and ensure that the sacred pilgrimage remains accessible and rewarding for all citizens of the country.