India Hajj Committee imposes last-minute airfare hike on pilgrims
Sudden airfare hike for Hajj 2026 triggers backlash, as pilgrims and netizens call extra charge unfair and exploitative
NEW DELHI, India (MNTV) — India’s Hajj Committee of India has asked pilgrims traveling for Hajj 2026 to deposit an additional 10,000 Indian rupees ($105), triggering backlash over what many describe as a sudden financial burden on Muslim worshippers.
In a circular issued on April 28, the committee said the increase follows a one-time airfare revision approved by the Ministry of Minority Affairs. The hike includes an additional $100 per pilgrim and applies across all embarkation points in the country.
The decision has drawn particular criticism because pilgrims had already been informed of fixed fares earlier in the process, with many having completed payments and confirmed travel arrangements, including return tickets. The sudden revision, coming days before departure, has raised concerns over transparency and planning.
Officials said the revision was prompted by airlines citing a sharp rise in Aviation Turbine Fuel prices amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East. Airlines had reportedly sought a much steeper increase—over $400 per passenger—but authorities approved only a partial hike, passing on a reduced cost to pilgrims.
All selected pilgrims have been directed to deposit the additional amount by May 15 through official channels, including the Hajj portal, the Hajj Suvidha app, and designated banks such as State Bank of India and Union Bank of India. State-level committees have been instructed to ensure compliance within the deadline.
The decision affects an estimated 175,025 pilgrims expected to travel from India this year, translating into an additional collective burden of nearly 1.75 billion Indian rupees ($18.4 million).
The move has drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders and public figures. Parliamentarian Asaduddin Owaisi called the charge “exploitation,” questioning why pilgrims were being asked to pay more after fares had already been fixed. He said many pilgrims save for years to undertake the journey and should not be subjected to last-minute financial demands.
Opposition lawmaker Imran Pratapgarhi described the decision as “utter injustice,” arguing that such collections should not be imposed on pilgrims undertaking a religious obligation through official channels.
Beyond political reactions, the issue has sparked widespread anger online, with many users describing the additional charge as “loot” from Indian Muslims, arguing that pilgrims are being unfairly burdened despite opting for the official government-managed route.
The controversy underscores broader concerns about affordability and access to the Hajj pilgrimage in India, where state-managed arrangements are intended to ease logistical and financial challenges but are now facing scrutiny over sudden cost revisions.
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