New Delhi: Former member of Haj Committee of India (Central Haj Committee – CHC), Hafiz Naushad Ahmad Azmi, expressed deep regret over Ministry of Minority Affairs’ mishandling of the Haj system. In a statement, Azmi lamented the ministry’s continuous violations of the Haj Act and long-standing traditions, which has led to a reduction in the number of pilgrims sent through CHC. Currently the government has allocated a quota of 70% to CHC and 30% quota to Private Tour Operators (PTOs). Azmi demanded immediate return to the earlier 90:10 ratio between CHC and PTOs, as thousands of pilgrims are still on the waiting list despite all arrangements being made.
Azmi also highlighted that previously, pilgrims aged 70 and above were excluded from the lottery system and allowed a companion. The ministry has now reduced this age to 65, leaving many pilgrims unable to participate in Haj due to the lack of a companion. He criticized these arbitrary changes.
Another issue raised was the change in accommodation categories. Until 2019, 30-40% of pilgrims opted for the “Green Category.” However, this option was removed, forcing many pilgrims to use PTOs due to the inconvenience of switching buses multiple times between Aziziyah and Haram.
Azmi expressed frustration that State Haj Committee members, who represent pilgrims’ interests, have been sidelined. For the past two years, no Haj conferences or meetings with State Committees have been held, and unilateral decisions have stripped pilgrims of essential facilities. He further criticized the ministry for excluding State Haj Committee members from post-Haj review meetings, noting that in the past, these committees worked closely with CHC to ensure better arrangements for pilgrims. This cooperation has been replaced by bureaucratic control, increasing the challenges for pilgrims.
Azmi also emphasized the importance of sending Haj guides (Khuddam-ul-Hujjaj) from State Haj Committees, calling it a matter of pride.
