The Senate Standing Committee on Religious Affairs, chaired by Senator Maulana Ataur Rehman, on Thursday expressed severe displeasure over the Ministry of Religious Affairs' handling of Hajj operations. Committee members alleged that pilgrims were "exploited" and that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was misled regarding the quality of the arrangements.
DG Hajj Summoned Over Complaints
The committee summoned Director General of the Pakistan Haj Mission, Abdul Wahab Soomro, to appear at its next meeting to explain the numerous complaints received. Members also decided to consider moving a privilege motion against Soomro over his alleged conduct towards the committee chairman. Senators insisted that Soomro must either appear before the committee or answer its questions in person.
Role of Council of Islamic Ideology
Officials from the Ministry of Religious Affairs informed the committee that the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) had already given its opinion on the matter. The chairman directed that representatives of the council be invited to the next meeting to present their views.
12,479 Complaints Received During Hajj 2026
During a briefing on Hajj 2026 operations, the Hajj coordinator in Makkah reported that a total of 12,479 complaints had been received during this year's pilgrimage. The official acknowledged shortcomings in accommodation, stating: "We admit there were issues with accommodation during Hajj, although some complaints related to the structural condition of buildings."
