The standing committee of the National Assembly on Religious Affairs and Inter-Faith Harmony called for the rapid issuance of security clearances and registration certificates to Zaireen Group Organizers (ZGOs) during a meeting on Thursday.
The committee, meeting under the acting chairmanship of Member National Assembly Muhammad Ijaz-ul-Haq, expressed concern over the financial pressure placed on organizers. Specifically, the committee recommended that the Ministry review and reduce the Rs. 1 million security deposit currently required of ZGOs to ease the burden on small-scale operators.
During the session, the Ministry informed the committee that 922 companies had received security clearance from the Ministry of Interior, 282 were being processed for registration, and 261 registration certificates had been issued. The committee emphasized that a clearly defined timeline for these processes must be established.
The committee also reviewed the financial management of Hajj operations, including audits, banking, and profit/loss handling. It stressed that all contracts and transactions must maintain transparency and follow competitive procurement procedures. Furthermore, the committee called for better coordination between federal and provincial authorities to ensure uniform facilitation for pilgrims.
Regarding parliamentary delegations to Saudi Arabia, the committee noted reported difficulties with visas and accommodation, stressing the need for clear SOPs and better coordination with Saudi authorities. The committee also examined concerns over the selection of Hajj-related companies, specifically regarding alleged violations of PPRA rules and Saudi instructions. The Ministry was asked to explain alleged procurement irregularities and why a blacklisted company is still operating.
On minority welfare, the Ministry reported that an additional Rs. 10 million for each minority Member was allocated after the committee recommended enhancing development funds. The committee praised the Prime Minister's initiative and suggested the Minister for Religious Affairs arrange a meeting between the Prime Minister and a minority Members' delegation. Additionally, the committee recommended coordinating with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to facilitate visas for minority community members visiting holy sites.
The committee also decided to discuss the status of a proposed museum in Islamabad requested by the Saudi Government and the proposed establishment of an Embassy in Iraq at its next meeting.
