J&K Hajj Pilgrims Threaten to Boycott Return Flights Over Baggage Allowance Cut, Call it Discriminatory

A dispute has emerged over travel arrangements for Hajj pilgrims returning to Jammu and Kashmir, with several pilgrims threatening to boycott their return flights after airlines reduced their baggage allowance and informed them that their luggage would be transported separately by road from Ahmedabad. The decision has sparked concerns among pilgrims, many of whom have alleged that they are being subjected to discriminatory treatment compared to passengers traveling to other destinations.

According to officials, the controversy stems from operational restrictions currently in place at Srinagar Airport. Pilgrims were informed that due to baggage limitations, only a reduced quantity of luggage would be allowed on return flights, while the remaining baggage would be transported separately and delivered several days later. The announcement triggered dissatisfaction among pilgrims, who argued that the arrangement would cause inconvenience after completing the annual pilgrimage.

Jammu and Kashmir Hajj Officer Shujaat Ahmad said the matter has been taken up with the relevant authorities. However, officials were informed that the restrictions are linked to the Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued for Srinagar Airport. The NOTAM was implemented by the Indian Air Force, which manages the defense airport, due to ongoing repair and maintenance work at the facility.

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Under the current NOTAM, Srinagar Airport is operating under restricted hours from April 6 to July 31. Flight operations are permitted only between 8 am and 5 pm, with evening services suspended during the maintenance period. Aviation authorities have cited these operational constraints as a key reason for modifying baggage handling procedures for returning Hajj pilgrims.

Many pilgrims have expressed frustration over the arrangement, claiming that separating passengers from their luggage for several days is unfair and creates additional hardship after an already demanding international journey. Some have warned that they may refuse to board return flights unless authorities reconsider the baggage restrictions or provide an alternative solution that allows luggage to travel with passengers.

The issue has placed pressure on aviation and Hajj authorities to find a practical resolution before the return phase of the pilgrimage begins. Officials continue to engage with airlines and airport authorities in an effort to address concerns raised by pilgrims. Until a final decision is reached, uncertainty remains over whether the planned return flights will proceed smoothly or face disruptions due to the threatened boycott.

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