42,778 applied for Hajj duties but only 700 were selected

A total of 42,778 people applied for one category of government Hajj duty staff under the revised selection criteria,

Islamabad: A total of 42,778 people applied for one category of government Hajj duty staff under the revised selection criteria, but only 700 candidates were selected. Questions were raised in the Senate Standing Committee on Religious Affairs regarding the testing system, transparency and complaints linked to the selection process.

The committee reviewed the revised criteria for selecting Moavineen for Hajj duties during its meeting chaired by MNA Shagufta Jumani. The Ministry of Religious Affairs informed the committee that the Cabinet Committee on Private Hajj Policy 2027 to 2030 approved the revised criteria on September 3, 2026.

The new selection system includes eligibility requirements, age limits, previous experience in Hajj duties, written and physical tests and medical fitness. The ministry also explained how personnel would be selected from different categories of government employees.

According to the ministry briefing, 42,778 applications were received for one category of Hajj duty staff. Of these, 25,225 applications were processed and 2,215 candidates were called for physical testing. Only 700 candidates were included in the final selection.

The committee was also briefed about the medical mission category. A total of 8,607 applications were received, around 6,800 candidates appeared in the examination and 524 candidates were selected for the final stage.

The large gap between the number of applicants and final selections drew attention during the meeting, with members examining how candidates were tested and how the final results were checked.

Members questioned the method used in written and physical examinations and asked about the role and accountability of third party testing agencies. They also sought clarification about the verification of examination results.

The committee members also raised questions about how experienced employees of the Ministry of Religious Affairs and other relevant departments were being treated under the revised criteria.

Another concern was the number of places reserved for female candidates. Members questioned whether the quota was sufficient for the demanding duties performed by Hajj support staff.

The chairperson stressed that the selection of Moavineen should be based on clear and merit based rules that applicants and the public can understand. She said the process should be transparent, accountable and easy to verify.

The committee also discussed complaints alleging possible irregularities and demands for money in connection with the selection process. These were presented as complaints and concerns during the proceedings, and the committee said any credible complaint supported by evidence should be examined through the proper investigation process.

The ministry informed the committee that specific complaints along with supporting evidence could be provided for inquiry.

The committee said its purpose was not only to examine individual complaints but also to identify weaknesses in the overall system and remove possible gaps that could affect the selection process.

Members stressed that the Hajj duty selection system must ensure equal opportunity for applicants and should not leave room for undue influence or favoritism.

The committee directed the Ministry of Religious Affairs to provide the required information and clarifications about the selection process and related complaints.

To examine the matters in greater detail, the committee also formed a sub committee under the convenorship of MNA Muhammad Ijaz ul Haq. Shagufta Jumani, Ahmed Saleem Siddique and Naeema Kishwar were nominated as members.

The sub committee will examine the relevant issues and present its findings and recommendations to the main committee.