2 June 2024: The Minorities Welfare Department of the Telangana State Haj Committee has issued an urgent appeal to the Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India, prioritizing the immediate resolution of grievances from Haj pilgrims in Saudi Arabia.
In a letter addressed to the Union Ministry, the Telangana State Haj Committee for Haj-2024 highlighted ongoing complaints from pilgrims regarding substandard facilities, deteriorating building conditions, and inadequate amenities. The committee called for immediate instructions to be given to the concerned officials in AHO/IHM/CGI Jeddah to address the issues faced by pilgrims residing in buildings No. 127 and 466 in Aziziya.
The letter referenced an earlier communication dated May 28, 2024 (No. TS/HC/45/2024), which outlined similar issues with buildings No. 350 and 352. The current complaints detail significant problems, including infestations of cockroaches and rodents, malfunctioning geysers, lack of exhaust fans and fridges, inadequate air conditioning, damaged electrical sockets, poor sanitary fittings, absence of drinking water, non-functional washing machines and gas stoves, and insufficient kitchen facilities for the allocated 25 members.
Pilgrims have expressed anxiety and frustration over these inadequate facilities, noting the absence of IHM and CGI officials to address their welfare and grievances.
A viral video, shared by journalist Mubashir Khurram of Siasat Daily, shows pilgrims voicing their concerns, particularly regarding water scarcity in Building No. 127 of Aziziya. The video reveals individuals receiving water from bathroom sources and facing cleanliness and pest issues. A khadim in the video even threatens to send the pilgrims back to India if they continue to complain.
“This is not the first time,” one pilgrim told Radiance, referencing similar issues from the previous year. They recounted overcrowded conditions in Mina, where approximately 5000 individuals shared only 20 toilets, among other challenges.
The Telangana State Haj Committee’s urgent appeal underscores the need for swift action to ensure the well-being and comfort of Haj pilgrims.
