Srinagar: The annual Hajj pilgrimage in 2024 from Jammu and Kashmir will see no draw of lots as all applicants will be selected automatically as the number of aspirants falls below the total seats allocated by the Centre for J&K.
Traditionally, J&K faced the challenge of accommodating two times more aspirants than the available seats, necessitating a draw of lots.
However, the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage will witness no such draw, as the number of applicants stands at a mere 7800, while the allotted seats for Jammu and Kashmir is 11,500, officials said.
“Despite an allocated quota of 9500 seats and an additional 2000 seats, making the total allotment 11,500, the number of applications received stands at a mere 7800 till January 15 which is the last date for submission of applications. This means that all applicants will be accommodated without the need for a draw of lots,” Executive Officer J&K Hajj Committee, Shujat Ahmad Qureshi was quoted as saying.
Qureshi also informed that the first flight for the Hajj pilgrimage in 2024 is scheduled to depart from the Srinagar embarkation point on May 09, 2024.
