Haj Airfare Hike Sparks Political Tensions

The Congress party has called for the withdrawal of a recent directive by the Haj Committee of India, which raises the airfare for the pilgrimage by Rs 10,000 per participant. Critics argue this places an undue burden on ordinary Indian families, as the cost of performing Haj has increased significantly under the current government.

Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju countered the criticism, explaining that the government successfully limited the airfare increase to USD 100 through negotiations with airlines, despite a requested rise of USD 400 due to the West Asia crisis. Rijiju emphasized the administration's efforts to manage costs and ensure a smooth Haj experience.

Opposition leaders like Congress MP Syed Naseer Hussain accuse the government of financial mismanagement and unfair treatment of pilgrims, stating the increased costs reflect poor planning and a lack of competitive pricing mechanisms. The Congress party calls for refunding the fee increase and demands structural reforms before the 2027 Haj season.

(With inputs from agencies.)