The Minister of Religious Affairs has asked all hajj agencies to refrain from accepting extra money from pilgrims for animals to be sacrificed in Saudi Arabia during the hajj.

The ministry issued the directive following a virtual meeting with Abdur Rahman Ghyanam, director general of Jeddah Airport Services, Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, held on 12 May, a press release of the ministry said on Tuesday.

Apart from the ministry, the officials of Bangladesh Hajj Offices located in Makkah and Jeddah and owners of the Hajj agencies also participated in the virtual meeting.

The ministry also asked the hajj agencies not to send zarda cartoons (tobacco products) through the Hajj pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.

At the same time, the ministry also requested the relevant authorities to ensure the comprehensive data entry of all Hajj flights.

This will enable the Hajj authorities in Madina and Jeddah to provide accurate information about the pilgrims, added the press release.