The Ministry of Religious Affairs made a significant relief to individuals who performed Hajj during the last five years.
Ministry spokesperson Muhammad Umar Butt on Tuesday shared the uplifting news that the ban on pilgrims performing Hajj for a second time within five years has been lifted. This decision, he explained, was prompted by the heartfelt requests of individuals who had completed Hajj in the last five years and wished to participate once again under the government scheme.
In a bid to further facilitate the process, the spokesperson revealed an extension of the deadline for Hajj 2024 applications under the government scheme by an additional ten days. “Applications are now accepted until December 22,” he affirmed.
In a nod towards inclusivity, the spokesperson encouraged women to consider applying for Hajj, highlighting that the government has eliminated the prerequisite of being accompanied by a male guardian.
It’s worth noting that the government’s decision to extend the Hajj application deadline was influenced by a lower-than-expected turnout, with a mere 34,000 applications received under both government and sponsorship schemes. This move underscores the government’s responsiveness to the community’s needs and its commitment to ensuring that as many eligible individuals as possible can partake in the transformative journey of Hajj.
