Natore, Dec 10 (V7N)- Religious Affairs Adviser Dr. AFM Khalid Hossain has said that various initiatives have been undertaken to make Hajj management more efficient and transparent, ensuring that no syndicate can operate as in previous years.

He made the remarks on Wednesday morning (December 10) after inaugurating the Natore District Model Mosque in front of the Deputy Commissioner’s office.

Dr. Khalid Hossain said everyone at the Ministry of Religious Affairs is now working with complete transparency. “The tendency to hold Hajis hostage that existed in the past has come down to zero,” he said. He added that under the ministry’s supervision last year, all arrangements—including the rental of accommodation for pilgrims—were managed efficiently, allowing more than Tk 85 million to be returned to pilgrims.

The adviser also mentioned that the Saudi government has banned individuals suffering from asthma, heart disease, and cancer from performing Hajj. “Therefore, the Ministry of Religious Affairs will not permit these patients to travel,” he said. He warned that if any doctor issues a false certificate declaring such patients as fit for Hajj, strict action will be taken.

Dr. Khalid Hossain urged elderly individuals to reconsider performing Hajj due to the physical strain involved. “Hajj requires a great deal of physical labor, which becomes extremely difficult for the elderly,” he noted.

He added that efforts continue to dismantle long-standing Hajj syndicates and reduce overall costs for pilgrims.

During his remarks, the adviser also said that the national election atmosphere has begun and that elections are expected to be held in February next year.

Following the inauguration ceremony, Dr. Khalid Hossain formally opened two additional model mosques in the district. The Deputy Commissioner of Natore, the Superintendent of Police, and other senior officials from the district administration were present.

END/SMA/AJ