Registered pilgrims allowed to nominate replacements for Hajj

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has announced a new facilitation policy for registered Hajj pilgrims who are unable to perform the pilgrimage due to unavoidable circumstances, including illness or death, 24NewsHD TV channel reported on Friday.

According to the official document, if a registered pilgrim passes away, any of his or her relatives will be allowed to perform Hajj in their place. 

Similarly, a pilgrim who is unable to travel due to compelling reasons will also have the right to nominate another person to proceed for Hajj.

The policy further stated that such a pilgrim will also be entitled to a full refund of the deposited Hajj amount if they choose not to nominate anyone.

However, the ministry clarified that in both cases, a valid and documented reason must be provided. In the event of illness or death, supporting evidence will be mandatory. 

Applicants will be required to submit a notarized affidavit on stamp paper, along with the bank receipt and a copy of their national identity card.

The move has been described as a source of relief for registered pilgrims facing hardship, ensuring that their deposits and opportunities for pilgrimage are safeguarded through either refunds or substitutions.

Reporter: Usman Khan