Dhaka: Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Houssain (Kaikobad) announced today that Tk 4.87 crore in unspent funds will be returned to 4,341 pilgrims who performed the holy Hajj under government management this year. The decision follows the settlement of expenses incurred in various sectors in Saudi Arabia.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister addressed a press conference at the Secretariat, emphasizing that the return of the funds is part of the government's efforts to uphold transparency and accountability in Hajj management. He clarified that the money collected from Hajj pilgrims was treated as a deposit, with proper accounts maintained throughout the process.
Kaikobad explained that any unspent money, after meeting the stipulated expenses, would be returned to the Hajj pilgrims instead of being retained in the government treasury. This decision aims to reinforce the government's commitment to transparent Hajj management. The minister detailed that the unspent Tk 4,87,23,014 resulted from covering necessary expenses, including accommodation, transportation, and food for the pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.
Highlighting the importance of Hajj as a religious obligation, Kaikobad assured that the government prioritizes preventing any harassment or uncertainty for pilgrims from the start. Efforts have been made to provide services and maintain financial transparency at every stage of Hajj management. He reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability in future Hajj operations.
State Minister for Religious Affairs Mohammad Shamim Kaiser, among others, was present at the press conference.