NA panel urges ministry to reduce ZGO security deposit
The National Assembly Standing Committee on Religious Affairs met in Islamabad on Thursday to direct the Ministry of Religious Affairs to reduce security deposits for pilgrimage organisers.

Committee directs faster clearance process
The panel chaired by Muhammad Ijaz-ul-Haq directed the ministry to expedite security clearance and issue registration certificates to Zaireen Group Organizers. The committee noted that 922 companies have obtained clearance from the Interior Ministry while 282 are processed for registration. Additionally, 261 registration certificates have already been issued to eligible operators under the current regulatory framework.
Policy review and financial rules
Members asked the ministry to submit the Zaireen Management Policy so they can identify implementation gaps and assess regulatory consistency. The group emphasized that all financial transactions for Hajj operations must follow prescribed rules and competitive procurement procedures. They also recommended reviewing the Rs1 million security deposit to lower the financial burden on small-scale operators.
Minority community coordination plans
The committee directed the ministry to coordinate with the Prime Minister's Office to arrange a meeting regarding minority development concerns. It also asked the religious affairs ministry to work with the foreign affairs ministry to facilitate visas for minority members visiting holy sites. The panel stressed transparency in handling funds, profits, and losses during Hajj operations.
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- Business Recorder
- Dawn
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