Hajj is a fundamental constituent of Islam.

Question

Hajj is a fundamental constituent of Islam. No one can deny its benefits. However my question is: Is Nafl Hajj permissible, nowadays? Large sums of money are spent for Nafl Hajj. A Maulana Sahib, said in an interview with the daily newspaper, Jung (of Pakistan): 'To combat communism and socialism, i.e. irreligiosity, it is essential to solve the problem of poverty. Thousands of people from Pakistan and other lands constrained by hunger are turning to Christianity. In Pakistan the sympathy for socialism is on account of poverty. In fact they are Muslims like us, and in times of need they will be prepared to sacrifice their lives for Islam. If the large amount of funds spent on Nafl Hajj is diverted to the poor and needy, then in my opinion the issue of poverty in the land will be solved to a great degree.' Last year I wrote about this issue to another Maulana Sahib. Supporting me he said: 'In the prevailing circumstances it is sinful to go for Nafl Hajj. The money should be distributed to the orphans, poor and needy. More thawaab will be obtained.' Please throw more light on this issue.