Karachi, In a significant development for Muslim pilgrims, Caretaker Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Aneeq Ahmed has announced the results of balloting for the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage. This announcement, made recently, marks a key step in the preparation for one of Islam’s most sacred obligations.
According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, a total of 69,438 applications were received under the Regular Hajj Scheme. Out of these, 63,805 applicants were successful in the balloting process. Additionally, a waiting list comprising 5,633 applicants has been prepared, based on their cities of departure. This list will serve to replace any intending pilgrims who withdraw their Hajj applications. The applicants, both successful and on the waiting list, will be informed about their status tonight through various channels, including mobile SMS, the official website, and a dedicated mobile app.
The Minister highlighted a novel initiative, stating that for the first time, Pakistani authorities are facilitating a “short Hajj.” The demographic breakdown of the applicants shows a significant female representation, with women constituting 56 percent and men 44 percent of the total applicants.
In a move to enhance the safety and convenience of the pilgrims, the Minister announced that each pilgrim will be provided with a suitcase equipped with a QR code. This innovative feature aims to prevent the loss of belongings during the pilgrimage. Furthermore, in a bid to keep the pilgrims connected, each will be provided with a data bundle of 7 Gbs.
While the Regular Hajj Scheme’s balloting has been concluded, the Sponsorship Scheme will remain open until Sunday, offering additional opportunities for those wishing to undertake the pilgrimage.
The Hajj pilgrimage, which is a mandatory religious duty for Muslims that must be carried out at least once in their lifetime by all adult Muslims who are physically and financially capable of undertaking the journey, sees millions of Muslims from around the world converging in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.