Applicants are now required to submit a declaration form instead of their original passports seven months before Haj
Team Clarion
MUMBAI — Several provisions of the new Haj policy have sparked concern and confusion among prospective pilgrims, particularly regarding age-related restrictions and accommodation arrangements. One of the most debated conditions is the requirement that a 65-year-old pilgrim must be accompanied by an assistant aged 60 or younger. This stipulation is causing significant difficulties for elderly couples who wish to perform Haj together.
Many pilgrims have expressed their frustration, particularly those who are struggling to apply due to these age restrictions. The Haj Committee of India has been inundated with complaints, with many pilgrims repeatedly contacting the committee for clarification and assistance.
A representative from the Maharashtra Haj Committee acknowledged that several pilgrims are troubled by the new conditions. The Central Haj Committee also confirmed that it was aware of these issues and has taken steps to address them. Liaquat Ali Afaqi, Additional CEO of the Haj Committee of India, stated that the age requirement of the assistant in the reservation category for pilgrims aged 65 years has been removed. However, this exemption is only applicable to husbands, wives, brothers, sisters, or other blood relatives. For non-relatives in the reserved category, the age limit of 60 years or less for the assistant remains in place.”
Accommodation Woes
Another significant change in the new policy is the accommodation arrangement, where male and female pilgrims, including married couples, will be housed in separate rooms. This decision, mandated by the Saudi government, has also been met with mixed reactions. While some Indian pilgrims had previously requested such arrangements for modesty reasons, others now argue that it is inappropriate and are considering voicing their opposition.
“The method will be that only men will be in one room and women in an adjacent room,” explained Afaqi. “This has been decided by the Saudi government, and while some pilgrims had demanded such arrangements, there is now a section ready to oppose it.”
Declaration Form
Given that the Haj process began much earlier this year, the Haj Committee has introduced a new procedure regarding passport submission. Applicants are now required to submit a declaration form instead of their original passports seven months before Haj. The original passports will only need to be provided closer to the Haj dates when the visa application process begins. The state Haj committees will then collect the original passports from the selected pilgrims.
To further assist the pilgrims, the Haj Committee of India has requested the Central Government to direct Regional Passport Officers to expedite the issuance of passports. “On the request of the state Haj committees, we have urged the Central Government to ensure that passports are prepared as quickly as possible across the country,” Afaqi said. “Once we receive government approval, this information will be posted on the Haj Committee of India’s website.”
The new Haj policy continues to evolve, and while some changes have been welcomed, others remain contentious. The Haj Committee of India is expected to provide further clarifications and support to ensure a smoother process for all pilgrims.
