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The Ministry of Religious Affairs has announced an extension in the registration deadline for Hajj pilgrims under the private scheme, citing disruptions caused by recent floods across the country. The decision comes as part of the government’s efforts to ensure that no intending pilgrim is deprived of the opportunity due to unforeseen natural calamities.
According to official sources, the registration process is ongoing through the ministry’s online portal. Initially, the last date for registration had been fixed for September 8, 2025, but the deadline has now been extended to facilitate those affected by the floods and other logistical challenges.
More Than 21,000 Pilgrims Already Registered
The ministry confirmed that so far, over 21,000 applicants have successfully registered under the private Hajj scheme. Officials expressed satisfaction over the overwhelming response and assured that all genuine applicants would be accommodated within the allocated quota.
A spokesperson for the Ministry of Religious Affairs said that the extension was crucial in light of difficulties faced by citizens, especially in flood-affected areas, who were unable to access registration facilities within the initial timeline.
Priority for Pilgrims Deprived Last Year
One of the key features of this year’s private Hajj policy is the priority allocation for pilgrims who were unable to perform Hajj last year, despite completing their registration and deposit requirements.
“Private Hajj operators have been strictly directed to give preference to those applicants who were deprived of performing Hajj in the previous season due to cancellations and quota limitations,” a ministry official explained.
Under the revised guidelines, private operators are also permitted to accept new applications against any unused quota. This measure aims to ensure maximum utilization of the available slots while safeguarding the rights of those who had already secured their place earlier.
Relief for Pilgrims Who Paid Deposits Last Year
The Ministry of Religious Affairs also issued clear instructions regarding deposits submitted by pilgrims last year. Individuals who deposited the required amount and retained their receipts will be allowed to perform Hajj this year without paying any additional charges.
Private Hajj operators are obligated to honor these commitments and facilitate such applicants at no extra cost. The government has warned operators against imposing hidden charges, emphasizing that strict monitoring will be carried out to protect pilgrims from exploitation.
However, officials clarified that those who withdrew their deposits after last year’s cancellations will not be eligible to avail the same package rates. Such individuals will need to reapply under the current scheme and pay the revised charges as applicable.
Digital Registration System for Convenience
The ministry highlighted that the digital registration system has significantly streamlined the process. Pilgrims can now apply and submit necessary documents through the official portal without the need to physically visit offices. This initiative was particularly beneficial in the aftermath of the floods, as it allowed residents in remote and affected regions to complete the registration process from their homes.
The government also assured applicants that their data and deposits would remain safe under the new system, which is designed with transparency and accountability in mind.
Monitoring of Private Hajj Operators
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has reiterated its commitment to strict monitoring of private Hajj operators. Any violation of the set rules, such as overcharging, denial of services, or failure to prioritize last year’s registered pilgrims, will result in penalties and potential license cancellations.
Officials also encouraged applicants to report grievances through the dedicated helpline and complaint cell established by the ministry. This ensures that immediate action can be taken against operators failing to comply with the official policy.
Facilitating Flood-Affected Pilgrims
Given the widespread destruction caused by the recent floods, the government has instructed private operators to extend special assistance to applicants from flood-hit districts. This may include flexible documentation timelines, extended support in application processing, and additional facilitation services.
The ministry has also been coordinating with provincial administrations to ensure that communication channels remain open, and necessary awareness campaigns reach the affected populations.
Ensuring Fair and Transparent Hajj Process
Religious scholars, community leaders, and social activists have welcomed the ministry’s decision to extend the registration deadline. They stressed that ensuring fairness, transparency, and inclusivity in the Hajj process is a religious and moral obligation.
Many pilgrims expressed relief over the government’s decision, saying that the extension has given them renewed hope, especially at a time when they are struggling with the aftermath of floods.
Looking Ahead
With more than 21,000 pilgrims already registered and thousands more expected to apply in the coming days, the government is optimistic about managing the Hajj process smoothly under the private scheme.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has urged applicants to complete their registration at the earliest to avoid last-minute hurdles. Authorities also reassured that every effort would be made to facilitate pilgrims so that they can focus on the spiritual significance of Hajj rather than logistical challenges.
As the new deadline approaches, the government remains committed to ensuring that all deserving individuals, particularly those previously deprived, are given the opportunity to perform Hajj with dignity and ease.
