CM demands increase in Haj Quota for Maharashtra

Mumbai, Sep 30 (UNI) Maharashtra Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh has made a strong demand to the Centre for a 'substantial increase' in the quota for Haj pilgrims from the state.

Speaking at an 'Iftar party' here last night, Deshmukh said so far, only Muslim residents of the state have benefitted. However, a number of non-Maharashtrian Muslims, staying in the state, should also be given a chance to perform the holy Haj.

Union Minister Oscar Fernandez was also present at the party.

The Iftar Party was organized by Unity, a Mumbai-based NGO, and attended by a large number of Muslim intellectuals and religious scholars.

UNI