Congress Leader Arham Adil Challenges Hajj Fee Increase, Seeks Reversal

Hyderabad: Congress leader Arham Adil has come out against a ₹10,000 surcharge on Hajj pilgrims for the upcoming 2026 pilgrimage, calling for an immediate reversal of the decision by the Haj Committee of India.

Speaking on Thursday, Adil characterized the fee increase as both unjust and exploitative, contending that it disproportionately affects ordinary devotees, particularly those from economically weaker sections. He pointed out that countless families undertake years of financial planning and savings to make the sacred journey, carefully budgeting their expenses and making advance deposits well in advance of their departure.

The sudden imposition of the additional charge, according to Adil, has left these families with minimal flexibility to accommodate the increased costs. The Haj Committee has instructed selected pilgrims to remit the extra ₹10,000 by May 15.

Officials attributed the fee hike to escalating global fuel prices, citing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East involving the United States, Israel, and Iran as contributing factors. These developments have driven up expenses related to air travel, ground transportation, and logistical arrangements.

With approximately 1,75,025 Indian pilgrims expected to undertake the Hajj this year, the additional levy translates to a combined financial burden exceeding ₹175 crore across all participants.

Adil also raised concerns about the manner in which authorities implemented the decision. He highlighted that pilgrims received no prior notification regarding potential cost adjustments when making their initial payments, only to face supplementary charges in the weeks preceding their travel.

The Congress leader demanded that the Haj Committee furnish a comprehensive justification for the increase, complete with an itemized breakdown of costs. He further called on officials to consider alternative approaches that do not place the full financial weight on pilgrims themselves.

Emphasizing that Hajj represents a fundamental religious obligation rather than a commercial venture, Adil warned that unexpected fees could cause considerable anxiety among pilgrims and their families. He subsequently appealed to the Union government to step in, review the fee structure, and shield pilgrims from the adverse effects of international market fluctuations.