The Haj Committee of India's last-minute decision to increase airfare by Rs 10,000 per pilgrim nationwide has placed unexpected financial strain on pilgrims, just weeks before departure. The committee attributes the hike to rising fuel costs due to the West Asia crisis, but the move has sparked discontent among applicants.
Formal Representation Made
Former councillor Iqbal Shaikh has submitted a formal representation to Union Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, questioning the basis of the increase. Shaikh stated, "These charges have been imposed citing rising fuel costs despite no such provision in the tender agreement. The original contract reportedly fixed the airfare at about Rs 8,900 per pilgrim, inclusive of a 40kg baggage allowance." Gujarat is expected to send 8,904 pilgrims for Haj 2026, with around 7,000 departing from Ahmedabad and 1,904 from Mumbai. The additional levy could translate into an estimated burden of nearly Rs 8.9 crore on pilgrims from the state alone.
Pilgrims Express Discontent
Pilgrims and their families have voiced concerns over the sudden hike, which has disrupted carefully planned finances. Shadab Ali Saiyed, a hospitality sector professional, said, "Many of us booked nearly eight months ago, in October, and planned our finances accordingly, often opting for instalments as allowed by the government. Now, just weeks before departure, we are being asked to pay an additional Rs 10,000. My parents, both in their sixties, are undertaking this once-in-a-lifetime journey, and for many families, Haj involves life savings."
Saiyed added, "Over the past week, pilgrims have received messages about additional payments. If I book a flight today for travel in July and fares rise later, the airline cannot charge me retrospectively. Why should Haj pilgrims be treated differently?"
Baggage Allowance Reduced
Concerns also surround the reduction in baggage allowance from 40 kg to 35 kg, and alleged underutilization of aircraft capacity. While aircraft are said to have a capacity of about 187 passengers, only around 145 pilgrims are reportedly being accommodated per flight, leading to logistical strain. The issue is expected to intensify during return journeys, when pilgrims typically carry Zamzam water and other items. With reduced baggage limits, many may be forced to incur baggage charges ranging between Rs 800 and Rs 1,000 per kg, according to the representations.
A copy of the representation has also been marked to Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and the state Haj Committee.
