Mangaluru: The inaugural function of Haj Pilgrimage 2015, was held at the old airport, Bajpe here on August 16.
The programme began with an invocation. The chairman of the Haj camp, Yenepoya Mohammad Kunhi welcomed the gathering. Qazi of DK Thwaqa Ahmed Musliyar blessed the programme.
Udupi Qazi Bekal Ibrahim Musliyar said that the Haj pilgrimage would help pilgrims achieve peace. He asked the pilgrims to not only pray for peace of oneself but for that of everyone else too during the pilgrimage and wished them well.
Thereafter, the programme was inaugurated by the dignitaries by handing over passports to the pilgrims.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Health and Family Welfare U T Khader said that many Muslims wish to go to the Haj on pilgrimage atleast once in their lifetime but due to financial problems, they are unable to go. Now the government is providing funds for those who want to go for Haj pilgrimage. People can easily avail the services from the government and fulfill their desire. He wished all the pilgrims, a safe journey.
Mohammed Margoob Ahmed, Vice Chairman of Haj Committee of India and former Chairman of Karnataka State Haj Committee, addressed the gathering and ensured help and support to the pilgrims during the time of their pilgrimage. He said that adequate provisions for accommodation and food have been arranged and Indian cooks will be provided to the pilgrims. He further said that the Haj Committee was ready to provide funds for a Haj Ghar and assured to sanction a minimum of Rs 1.5 crore fthe Haj Committee of India towards the construction of the same.
The first 2015 batch of 134 pilgrims will be leaving Dakshina Kannada on August 16. This is the first batch to leave from Karnataka of the 5000 pilgrims who will be leaving for Haj pilgrimage this year.
District minister in-charge Ramanath Rai, Minister for Youth Services and Fisheries Abhaychandra Jain, MLA J R Lobo, MLA Moideen Bava, Mayor Jacintha Alfred, MLC Ivan D’Souza, DC Ibrahim also spoke on the occasion. Members of the state Haj committee were also present.