The Hajj pilgrimage is one of the most sacred journeys a Muslim can undertake. For months, pilgrims prepare physically, financially, and spiritually. They save money, seek forgiveness, and look forward to returning home with gifts and blessings for their families. The last thing they need, as they prepare to return, is unnecessary stress over baggage. Unfortunately, this is exactly what pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir are facing this year. The decision to reduce the traditional 40-kilogram luggage allowance and send most of their belongings separately by road from Ahmedabad to Srinagar has caused genuine resentment. Pilgrims have every right to be concerned. They have purchased gifts and essential items for their families over the weeks of staying in the holy land. Now they are being told that only 5 kilograms of check-in baggage and 7 kilograms of hand baggage will be allowed on their return flights. The remaining 30 kilograms will travel separately by road and will arrive after several days. The Haj Committee’s explanation about runway maintenance at Srinagar Airport is understandable. Technical and operational limitations are real. However, the timing and communication of this decision have caused unnecessary confusion and worry. Elderly pilgrims, in particular, are stressed. They worry about damaged belongings, delayed deliveries, and the safety of items that hold emotional and financial value. The government must step in immediately. First, the Haj Committee should ensure that the road transport of baggage is handled with extreme care, proper tracking, and insurance coverage for any loss or damage. Second, clear communication should be provided to every pilgrim about exactly when and where their baggage will arrive. Third, a grievance redressal mechanism should be set up at Srinagar Airport to handle any issues on the spot. It is also important that future Hajj planning takes such operational limitations into account well in advance. Pilgrims should not be surprised by last-minute changes. The sacred journey deserves dignity from start to finish. Minister Sakeena Itoo has assured that the concerns will be “thoroughly examined”. This is a welcome statement, but words must now translate into action. Let the pilgrims return home with peace of mind, not anxiety over luggage. They have fulfilled their spiritual duty. Now it is the government’s duty to ensure that their homecoming is smooth, respectful, and stress-free.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha's call for ethical tourism to be the guiding principle of Jammu and Kashmir's future is both timely and necessary. His emphasis on responsible, sustainable, and inclusive tourism is...
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