He said the Haj House will be kept free from politics this year too like previous year. "We had worked as team last year. All of us were on a single platform to serve the pilgrims. There is no politics here. People served pilgrims raising themselves from party politics," said Ashraf talking to journalists.

Talking about inconveniences faced by hajis last year, he stated that efforts would be made so that such troubles do not recur. Hajis faced many problems due to negligence of Air India and if it does not improve its service, a nationwide agitation will be initiated against it, he said, adding that he hoped Air India will provide better services to the pilgrims this year.

He appealed to Muslims in the state to send duly filled application forms for haj 2008, to the committee before 31st May. They can collect the form from District Magistrate office in each district. If original forms are not available, photocopy of the form can also be used.

Afazal Amanullah, chief secretary of state Home Department and secretary of Minority Welfares (additional charge), expressed his delight on the election of Jamshed Ashraf as the chairman. Amanullah will give training to the haj pilgrims this year. He has stayed 14 years in Saudi Arabia and also discharged duty of Consulate General of India there.