AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi criticized the Haj Committee of India for requiring Haj pilgrims to pay an extra Rs 10,000 as differential airfare due to the crisis in West Asia. Owaisi demanded the withdrawal of the directive and refunds for affected individuals. The circular, issued on April 28, mandates a $100 payment by May 15 for all pilgrims, regardless of their departure location.
Owaisi highlighted that this additional charge comes after each pilgrim departing from Mumbai has already paid Rs 90,844, raising concerns about the financial strain on travelers. The directive was a response to airlines’ requests for a fare revision due to increased Aviation Turbine Fuel costs linked to the West Asia situation. The Haj Committee operates under the Ministry of Minority Affairs.
The committee justified the fare adjustment, citing airlines’ requests for a base fare increase exceeding $400 due to rising ATF prices amid the West Asia crisis. They stated that after careful consideration and stakeholder consultations, the decision was made. Pilgrims are required to deposit Rs 10,000 for the differential airfare by May 15, as per the circular.
Owaisi strongly criticized the move, emphasizing that many pilgrims save for years for this non-luxury religious journey. He called for an immediate reversal of the circular and refunds for those who have already paid. Owaisi questioned the fairness of demanding an additional Rs 10,000 from pilgrims after the substantial amount already collected, labeling it as exploitation rather than assistance for the less affluent pilgrims.
