Committee seeks explanation after 12,479 complaints reported, with officials admitting accommodation and transport issues during pilgrimage operations
Islamabad: The Senate Standing Committee on Religious Affairs has summoned Director General Hajj Makkah Abdul Wahab Soomro from Saudi Arabia to Pakistan over complaints regarding arrangements for Hajj 2026, including accommodation, transportation and other facilities provided to pilgrims.
The decision was taken during a committee meeting chaired by Senator Atta-ur-Rehman, where officials from the Ministry of Religious Affairs briefed lawmakers on this year’s Hajj operations.
Ministry officials acknowledged that some pilgrims faced difficulties during the pilgrimage, particularly related to accommodation and transport arrangements. The committee was informed that 12,479 complaints were received regarding Hajj-related services.
Accommodation and Transport Issues Reported
During the briefing, the Hajj Makkah coordinator said some buildings provided for pilgrims had issues and that authorities had imposed fines of Rs510,000 on building owners over service-related shortcomings.
Officials said 155 buildings were classified as Category B facilities, while 45 were Category A buildings.
The committee was also informed that pilgrims faced transportation difficulties, after which additional buses were arranged to improve travel facilities.
Senators Raise Concerns Over Hajj Services
Committee members expressed dissatisfaction over the gap between official claims and the experiences reported by pilgrims.
Committee Chairman Senator Atta-ur-Rehman said government officials often present ideal recommendations, but conditions on the ground can be different.
Senator Hafiz Abdul Karim said several pilgrims faced problems and claimed that complaints raised with the DG Hajj Makkah were not resolved effectively.
Senator Dinesh Kumar also criticized the arrangements, raising concerns about medical facilities, food and accommodation services. He said many pilgrims save money for years to perform Hajj and deserve better facilities.
Committee Calls DG Hajj Makkah for Explanation
Senators questioned the continued appointment of Abdul Wahab Soomro as DG Hajj Makkah and demanded clarification regarding the issues raised during the pilgrimage operation.
The committee decided to move a privilege motion against the DG Hajj Makkah and directed that he appear before the panel in its next meeting.
Senator Bushra Anjum Butt also called for the DG Hajj Makkah to be summoned, saying the committee should either receive his appearance in Pakistan or be provided an opportunity to question him in Saudi Arabia.
The Senate committee will continue reviewing the Hajj 2026 arrangements and complaints before making further recommendations.
Also Read: Hajj 2027 Costs Likely to Rise as Pakistan Pilgrims May Pay Up to Rs1.3 Million
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