New Delhi, March 08: The pilgrimage to Haj is what every pious Muslim lives for. The expense for a trip to Haj comes close to Rs 2 lakh. However, if you’re well connected and powerful, you can go on a Haj pilgrimage for free.
An RTI query reveals that the Indian government sponsors 30-35 people every year at a cost of between Rs 2 and 4 crore. It’s called the Haj Good Will delegation with members selected by the Prime minister’s office. All expenses- travel, accommodation and facilities – are borne by the Ministry of External Affairs.
RTI activist Afroz Aalam Sahil said, “Poor people can’t go, how can government justify sponsoring the rich and powerful?”
Sahil’s RTI query reveals that:
-In 2005, a 34-member team was sent at a cost of Rs 2.8 crore. Two delegations were sent the next year. Twenty four people were sent at a cost of Rs 2.8 crore and another team of 27 for Rs 2.39 crore.
-In 2007, 29 people were sent at the cost of Rs 2.5 crore.
-In 2008, 34 people were sent costing Rs 4.37 crore.
Politicians appear to be the biggest beneficiary of this Government dole.
In 2008 then Jharkhand governor Syed Sibte Razi went as part of the delegation.
Guwahati high court judge Aftab Hussain and actor Nafisa Ali have also made the trip.
Minister of State for Railways E Ahamed’s has been sponsored twice as has BJP MP Shahnawaz Hussain.
Minister for railways E Ahamed said, “Every time delegation numbers are increasing and the government will have to take the interest or request of several parties.”
The Muslim personal law board has condemned the practice…arguing that the good will delegation is spreading discrimination and little good will among the common Muslim.
-Agencies