Mumbai: The Central Hajj Committee has officially renamed Khuddam-ul-Hujjaj as Hajj Inspectors, aiming to improve accountability and efficiency in assisting pilgrims. Maharashtra will require 125 to 130 Hajj Inspectors, with one assigned per 150 pilgrims.
At the state level, 300 applications were received for the role. After document verification and an online test, 213 candidates were interviewed, with final selections expected next week. This year, only government employees or those affiliated with autonomous institutions will be considered, excluding private individuals.
As of now, 18,302 pilgrims have completed their documentation and payments. Additionally, 1,500 applicants remain on the waiting list, and if confirmed, the total number of Hajj pilgrims from Maharashtra may reach 23,000.
The selection process emphasized knowledge of Hajj procedures, crisis management skills, and coordination abilities. The interviews were overseen by Hajj Committee Chairman Asif Usman Khan, Executive Officer Meghna Gaurav Shinde, and other officials.
In previous years, complaints surfaced about Khuddam-ul-Hujjaj neglecting their duties in Saudi Arabia. With the new Hajj Inspector system, the committee aims to ensure that pilgrims receive proper assistance throughout their journey. The final list of Hajj Inspectors and confirmed pilgrims will be announced soon.
