A fresh controversy has erupted over the reported Rs 10,000 hike in Haj charges for 2026, with Congress leaders demanding an immediate rollback.
Party spokesperson Arham Adil termed the increase unjust and exploitative, arguing that it placed an undue burden on economically weaker pilgrims.
The hike is linked to revised costs communicated by the Haj Committee of India, which oversees arrangements for Indian pilgrims travelling to Mecca in Saudi Arabia.
Over 1.75 lakh pilgrims are expected to undertake Haj from India in 2026, meaning the cumulative additional burden could exceed Rs 175 crore.
The officials have attributed the increase to rising global expenses, including higher airfare, accommodation and logistical costs, influenced by geopolitical tensions and inflationary pressures. However, critics argue that the sudden revision - without adequate prior notice - has left many families struggling to arrange additional funds.
Adil demanded transparency in the pricing structure and called for a detailed cost breakdown. He also urged the Union government to step in and cushion pilgrims from volatile international costs, and said that Haj was a once-in-a-lifetime religious obligation for many Muslims.
The issue has sparked concern among applicants across States, with community representatives warning that such hikes could deter low-income devotees from undertaking the pilgrimage.