Islamic Minister Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed announced today that work is underway to formulate a Hajj and Umrah Act to prevent negligence by groups that take people for Umrah.

Responding to a question from a member during today’s session of the People’s Majlis, Shaheem stated his belief that a fair solution to the issue of negligence by Umrah groups can only be achieved by establishing a specific law. He noted that the Ministry of Islamic Affairs is currently working on drafting such legislation.

"Therefore, on behalf of our Ministry, we are working to formulate a law regarding the matters of Hajj and Umrah in the Maldives, and within this law, to fully define the role of the Maldives Hajj Corporation as well as the role of private companies, and to establish a system where punishments can be given or firm legal actions can be taken for the offenses they commit," the Minister said.

He stated that this is a necessary step and noted that it is handled similarly in other countries. He further emphasized that since taking people for Hajj and Umrah involves money and is linked to the high interests of the citizens, a law must be introduced for these matters.

"This (negligence towards people by Umrah groups) will stop when firm legal actions are taken regarding this. Therefore, God willing, in the not-too-distant future, we will work [to make a law]," Shaheem said.

Shaheem also requested the members of the People's Majlis today to support the passing of a Hajj and Umrah-related law.

The issue of groups taking money for Hajj and Umrah but failing to take the people has increased in the Maldives recently. A state-owned company named "Hajj Corporation" was established specifically to provide a solution to this issue.