Hajj operators concerned over reduction in quota

Excelsior Correspondent

Srinagar, Apr 14: The J&K Hajj and Umrah Services Association today expressed deep concern over the sudden 20 percent reduction in Hajj quota for private tour operators, calling it a major blow to both the operators and pilgrims.
Addressing a press conference here, the association’s General Secretary Omar Nazir Tibetbakal said the decision had come at the “last minute,” leaving both operators and intending pilgrims in a state of confusion and distress.

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“This step has been taken just when the groups were ready to leave. What are the people supposed to do now?” he said.
“The challenge before us is whom to select and whom to leave out. Even picking 20 percent of the total list is going to be extremely difficult.”
He added that many arrangements had already been made, including payments to airlines and hotels.
“People have been caught by surprise. The money has already been transferred to the Consulate General of India in Jeddah. We are unsure what’s going to happen next,” he said.
Calling it a “big setback” for private tour operators, the association urged the Government to clarify its policy.
“We need to know what the Government intends to do now. The financial losses are secondary-our main concern is the people. For many, Hajj is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” he said, calling the situation “devastating.”
Tibetbakal emphasized that the elderly were among those most affected, as many undertake the pilgrimage in the later stages of life.
He, however, assured that those who will not be able to go will receive refunds.
“If we are not taking someone, the money will be refunded after tax deductions. But there are also people who booked through other places such as Delhi and Mumbai, and we have no clarity on how those arrangements will be handled,” he added.
He further said that the payments made were safe and currently with the Hajj Committee. “Right now, our priority is to sort out the selection of the 20 per cent quota we’ve been left with,” he said.

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