Muslims divided over proposed withdrawal

Supreme Court in 2012 directed the Centre to abolish Haj subsidy by 2022 so as to invest the subsidy amount on the welfare of Muslims.

HYDERABAD: Centre’s proposal to remove subsidy for poor Muslims to go on Haj Pilgrimage to Mecca and Madina has led to debate among intellectuals and politicos of TS Muslim community.

While some opposed this proposal outright, others welcomed this move saying that the funds spent for this purpose can be used for welfare and education of the poor.

Congress leader Mohammed Ali Shabbir criticised Centre for considering the idea of removing Haj subsidy. He attacked AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi for asking Centre to stop providing subsidy to those who go on Haj pilgrimage. “MIM chief, whose income has spiraled from Rs 8 lakh in 2004 and Rs 4.5 crore in 2014 (as per election affidavits) may not require it. But, Haj subsidy granted by British in 1932 is a boon to poor and retired officials for one Haj pilgrimage in their life time,” he said urging Centre not to remove subsidy.

Few intellectuals from the community said welfare and development of Muslims is a Constitutional obligation. Hence, they argue that by cancelling Haj subsidy of Rs 690 crore, Centre cannot bring any contribution to their welfare. Differing with this view, a few back the move, saying that this would help government in spending more money for welfare of poor Muslims.

Supreme Court in 2012 directed the Centre to abolish Haj subsidy by 2022 so as to invest the subsidy amount on the welfare of Muslims.

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