Serious questions have emerged over the distribution of Hajj quotas among private tour operators, with documents pointing to financial irregularities, alleged favouritism and a network of companies linked to associates of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman.
The controversy centres on Mufti Abrar, described as a close associate of Fazlur Rehman, and former Director General Hajj Abdul Wahab Soomro. Questions have also been raised over the allocation of Hajj quotas and contracts for accommodation, transportation and catering facilities in Saudi Arabia.
According to the available documents, 45 smaller Hajj companies are linked to Akhlaq Ahmed Khan, reportedly associated with Al-Afwu Manazim and Sajjad Travels. Seven of these companies are said to have connections with Mufti Abrar’s close relatives and associates.
The documents further indicate that these seven companies received Hajj quotas worth more than Rs1 billion for 2026, raising questions about the criteria, approval process and transparency of the allocation.
45 Hajj companies and Rs1 billion quota allocation
The reported network of 45 companies has brought the distribution of Hajj quotas under scrutiny. Questions have been raised over whether the companies received preferential treatment and whether the allocation process followed established merit-based criteria.
The reported allocation of more than Rs1 billion worth of Hajj quotas to seven companies linked to Mufti Abrar’s family and associates has particularly drawn attention.
Authorities are being urged to examine the ownership structures, financial transactions and business relationships of the companies involved.
Questions over former DG Hajj’s role
Questions have also emerged over the role of former DG Hajj Abdul Wahab Soomro during his tenure, particularly regarding the awarding of contracts for accommodation, transportation and food services to Hajj operators in Saudi Arabia.
The nature of his professional and personal connections with Mufti Abrar and other individuals associated with the quota distribution process also requires examination.
Calls for investigation into Hajj quota distribution
The controversy has prompted demands for a comprehensive audit of Hajj quota allocations, company ownership records and financial transactions involving the operators concerned.
Calls have also been made for the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) and Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) to examine the matter and determine whether any rules were violated or public funds and pilgrims’ money were misused.
The proposed investigation also seeks scrutiny of the financial dealings and Hajj-related roles of Mufti Abrar, Maulana Nasir Mahmood, Akhlaq Ahmed Khan and former DG Hajj Abdul Wahab Soomro.
Accountability questions remain
Hajj is a sacred religious obligation for which many Pakistanis save their earnings over several years. Any irregularity in quota distribution, service contracts or financial arrangements directly raises concerns about pilgrims’ rights and the transparency of the system.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Mufti Abrar and the other individuals named in connection with the controversy should be given an opportunity to respond to the questions raised.
A transparent, independent investigation and a detailed audit of the relevant records are necessary to establish the facts, identify any violations and ensure accountability.
