Applications of some successful candidates under the government quota system for Hajj can be turned down on technical grounds (TG). Sources privy to development revealed that these include a person who has performed Hajj in past seven years and has not selected Hajj Al-Badal or he is 'mahram' of such a woman who has performed Hajj in past seven years.

Similarly, authorities concerned can bar such a woman from performing Hajj whose application is received without 'mahram'. Minister for Religious Affairs Cultural Harmony, Sardar Yousaf conducted the lucky draw on Friday. Around 87,419 applicants of government's Hajj scheme have won the lucky draw out of which 107,526 would be short listed while 17,564 are in the waiting list over which the court holds the final say.

At least 87,419 applications were selected out of a total 338,696 forms. Under 50 percent reserved quota of the ministry, 87,419 candidates were declared winner and have been congratulated through SMSs. An order of the court said that 50 percent of the 60 percent pilgrims have been declared finalists whereas the Hajj organisers have challenged ten percent quota of Hajj in Sindh High Court. Punjab Information Technology Board was sought assistance for computerised lucky draw.

According to the federal minister, 179,210 candidates would perform Hajj this year and that for the first time, 394 senior citizens have been given immunity from lucky draw. A young attendant would be dispatched along with all 394 senior citizens each, he added. Sardar Yousaf said that the candidates that won the lucky draw are required to submit their passports by May 10. However, those who fail to meet the deadline would be able to refund their money from banks concerned. Hajj operation would begin on July 27 and would conclude by October 6, the minister said.

Successful applicants for this year will undergo intense training and guidance under supervision of renowned religious scholars and hajj pilgrims whereas strategy would be devised on tehsil and district level shortly to start the training programme. Audio and video cassettes will be used to make pilgrims aware of their religious obligations during hajj rituals.

Sources further revealed that Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony have summoned details of hajj packages from private tour operators whereas talks are underway with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) to reduce fairs. It is pertinent here to mention that out of 89000 groups, 61361 groups were declared unsuccessful in the previous year.

Copyright News Network International, 2017