Jammu,April 27 (Scoop News) – Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah today reviewed the arrangements for Haj-2011 at the second meeting of J&K State Haj Committee of which he is the Chairman also.
The Chief Minister taking stock of the conduct of Haj pilgrimage in 2010 received detailed brief about various aspects of transportation, issuance of passport, availability of flights and other facilities provided to the Hajis.
It was stated in the meeting that 6887 Hajis performed Haj last year. The selection was made through draw of lots. However, 854 drop outs of 2007, 2008 and 2009 were allowed for pilgrimage without drawing of lots.
An officer of the rank of Deputy Secretary was deputed as the Member of Building Selection Committee while 23 eligible persons were deputed as Khudam-ul-Hujaj.
The Committee was informed that as per the communication from Haj Committee of India the date of draw of lots of Hajj 2011 has been fixed as 14.05.2011 while the last date of submission of passport by the selected pilgrims is 15.06.2011.
In addition to reserved quota for the drop outs in last three consecutive years and those who could proceed on Haj for non-submission of passports, the Haj seats will be confirmed without draw of lots for the intending Haj pilgrims of 70 years of age on 31.03.2011 along with one companion with the condition that both of them are in possession of valid international passport on the last date of receipt of Haj application form i.e 30th April 2011.
The Committee was informed that State Haj Committee has received 18900 applications from the intending Haj pilgrims for Haj 2011. The various arrangements on account of boarding and lodging and other aspects are afoot and steps are on to complete the unfinished work of the residential block at Haj House, Srinagar.