Not On Us! Indian Govt Blames Private Operators for Haj Quota Cut

Amid concerns over Saudi Arabia reportedly slashing India’s private Haj quota, the Ministry of Minority Affairs on Tuesday clarified that the cut resulted from private tour operators failing to meet key deadlines set by Saudi authorities — despite repeated reminders.

The ministry stated that its timely intervention has now led to the Saudi Haj Ministry agreeing to re-open the Haj (Nusuk) Portal, allowing Combined Haj Group Operators (CHGOs) to process arrangements for 10,000 pilgrims, based on the current space availability in Mina.

Of the 1,75,025 Haj slots allocated to India for 2025, 1,22,518 are handled by the Haj Committee of India, while 52,507 are earmarked for private operators. This year, following new Saudi guidelines, over 800 private tour operators were consolidated into 26 CHGOs.

Also Read: Struggling with High Blood Pressure? Here Are Two Foods To Help You Reduce BP

“Despite reminders, they failed to comply with the necessary timelines and did not finalise contracts for Mina camps, accommodation, and transport as required under Saudi regulations,” the ministry said.

It further added that while the Haj Committee completed all formalities within deadlines, the delay by CHGOs led to concerns over pilgrims’ safety due to the extreme summer conditions and limited space in Mina.

Addressing political criticism, the government stressed it has been actively engaging with Saudi authorities at various levels. “India would naturally appreciate any gesture by Saudi authorities to accommodate more pilgrims,” the ministry noted.

Opposition leaders, including Omar Abdullah, Farooq Abdullah, Mehbooba Mufti, and Syed Naseer Hussain, had earlier voiced alarm over the reported cancellation of over 52,000 Haj slots, urging External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to intervene.

“The reported cancellation… is deeply concerning,” Omar Abdullah posted on X, while Mehbooba Mufti said the move had caused “immense distress” to pilgrims and operators alike.

Also Read: Regional Flavours For The New Year! Four Festive Dishes to Try Today