Why Did Telangana Remove Hajj Committee Official Over Insensitive Remarks?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Government Accountability: The Telangana government's swift response showcases its commitment to public sentiment.
- Importance of Sensitivity: Officials must communicate respectfully, especially in times of tragedy.
- Public Outrage: The community's reaction reflects the significance of empathy in governance.
- Support for Families: The government is facilitating travel for relatives to honor their loved ones.
Hyderabad, Nov 18 (NationPress) The government of Telangana has acted decisively against Mohammed Safiullah, the Director of Telangana Urdu Academy and the Executive Officer of the Telangana Hajj Committee, due to his callous comments regarding the Umrah pilgrims who tragically lost their lives in a bus accident in Saudi Arabia.
On Tuesday, the state administration transferred him back to his original department, the Telangana Power Generation Corporation.
This decision was made following widespread outrage from various community groups after his remarks ignited controversy.
A video showing the official making insensitive remarks to the victims' families circulated widely. He was recorded asking, “Jale hue tukdo ko kya dekhne jaate?” (Why do you need to go see the charred remains?), as distraught relatives assembled at Haj House seeking assistance for their travel to Saudi Arabia.
His comments drew severe backlash from the victims' families and leaders from numerous political entities, prompting calls for disciplinary action against him.
Although he later issued an apology, the government proceeded with his repatriation. Safiullah, who held the position of Deputy Secretary (Non Cadre) at TG GENCO, was functioning as both Director of the Urdu Academy and Executive Officer of the Hajj Committee.
B. Shafiullah, Secretary of the Minorities Welfare Department, has formally ordered Safiullah’s reassignment.
Mohammad Asadullah, the Survey Commissioner of Waqf, has been appointed as the new Executive Officer of the Telangana Hajj Committee and Director of the Telangana Urdu Academy.
In a tragic incident, 45 Umrah pilgrims from Hyderabad lost their lives when their bus collided with a diesel tanker near Madinah late Sunday night. One pilgrim survived the crash and is currently receiving treatment in a local hospital.
The Telangana government has stated that the last rites for the deceased will likely occur in Saudi Arabia, adhering to religious practices. Additionally, arrangements will be made for two family members from each bereaved family to travel to Saudi Arabia for the final ceremonies.