India remains committed to ensuring safety, comfort, and well-being of all Hajis

IANS May 15, 2025 1,363 views

India's commitment towards its Muslim citizens is evident as Ambassador Suhel Khan ensures a seamless Haj pilgrimage under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. As part of this endeavor, Khan evaluated facilities in Mecca, prioritizing pilgrims' well-being and reviewing transport services. An especially progressive move by the government, allowing women to perform Haj without male companions, was highlighted with the arrival of an all-women group from Kerala. The Indian Haj Mission continues supporting pilgrims with special needs, reflecting India's dedication to an inclusive and respectful pilgrimage experience.

"Women are benefiting from India's progressive policy of allowing Haj without a male companion." - Embassy of India in Riyadh
Riyadh, May 15: India's Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Suhel Khan met pilgrims from different Indian states in Mecca on Thursday as the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi continued to make efforts to ensure a smooth and seamless Haj pilgrimage for all.

Key Points

1

Ambassador Suhel Khan inspects facilities for Indian pilgrims in Mecca

2

Modi's government enhances Indian Haj experience ensuring comfort and safety

3

Progressive Haj policy sees all-women pilgrim groups traveling independently

4

Indian Haj Mission supports elderly and special needs pilgrims with dedicated services

"Ambassador Suhel Khan visited pilgrims from various states and enquired about their welfare and issues of concern in Mecca today. The Government of India remains committed to ensuring the comfort and safety of the Indian pilgrims and making their spiritual Haj journey hassle-free," the Embassy of India in Riyadh posted on X.

Earlier in the day, the Indian Ambassador accompanied by Indian Consul (Haj) Muhammed Abdul Jaleel and other coordinators, inspected various functional desks, branch offices, and branch dispensaries set up to serve the Indian pilgrims in Mecca.

The Ambassador also undertook a comprehensive review of the Azizia transport in Mecca. Azizia transport is seamless, 24-hour service provided for the pilgrims from their residences to the Haram Sharif by the Indian Haj Mission.

The medical and accommodation facilities for Indian Haj pilgrims are also being continuously monitored and reviewed. The Indian Consul General of Jeddah, Fahad Ahmed Khan Suri on Wednesday held a review meeting with the officials and staff deployed in temporary branch offices and dispensaries, various cells and desks, set up by the Indian Haj Mission.

In a significant moment under the Indian government's progressive 'Lady Without Mehram' (LWM) policy, the Indian Ambassador and his wife on Wednesday received an all women Haj pilgrim group from Kerala at the Jeddah Haj Terminal in Saudi Arabia.

"Ambassador Suhel Khan, along with his spouse Rifat Khan welcomed an all-women group of pilgrims from Kerala at the Jeddah Haj Terminal today. Women are benefiting from the Government of India's progressive policy of allowing Haj without a male companion under the Lady Without Mehram' category," the Embassy of India in Riyadh posted on X.

With the Indian government committed to ensuring a smooth and seamless Haj pilgrimage for all, Ambassador Khan on Wednesday also reviewed the arrival arrangements of Indian pilgrims during his visit to the Jeddah Haj Terminal. Accompanied by Indian Consul General in Jeddah Mohammed Hashim, the Indian diplomat met all the staff and the community volunteers.

The first batch of Indian Haj pilgrims arrived in the country on April 29. With the government according highest priority for Indian Muslims to undertake the annual pilgrimage, the country allocation for India has gradually increased to 175,025 in 2025 from 136,020 in 2014.

For Haj 2025, the Indian Haj Mission is ensuring dedicated support for elderly pilgrims and persons with special needs, the Ministry of Minority Affairs (MoMA), which through the Haj Committee of India manages arrangements for the bulk of the quota allotted to India, said on Wednesday.

All the necessary arrangements including flight schedules, transportation, Mina camps, accommodation, and additional services have been taken up and completed as per the Saudi requirements, within the given timelines.

Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
Good to see our government ensuring smooth Haj arrangements. This reflects India's commitment to all its citizens' religious needs. The 'Lady Without Mehram' policy is especially progressive - more power to our sisters! 🙏
P
Priya M.
The medical facilities and transport arrangements mentioned here are impressive. As someone whose mother went for Haj last year, I can say the improvement in services is noticeable. Just hope they maintain the same quality throughout the season.
A
Arjun S.
While the efforts are commendable, I hope similar attention is given to improving infrastructure for all pilgrimages in India - whether it's Char Dham, Amarnath or Sabarimala. Equal support for all religions would strengthen our secular fabric.
S
Sunita R.
The increase in quota from 136,020 to 175,025 shows how India's global standing has improved. Our diplomats are doing great work in Saudi Arabia. The women-only group initiative is particularly heartwarming! More such empowerment please.
V
Vikram J.
As an Indian, I'm proud of our government's efforts to facilitate Haj pilgrimage. However, I wish the media would also highlight how Saudi Arabia treats our workers. Both aspects need attention for balanced India-Saudi relations.
N
Neha P.
The focus on elderly pilgrims and persons with special needs is very thoughtful. India's Haj management has come a long way. Maybe next they can work on making the entire process more affordable for common people. The spiritual journey shouldn't be limited by economic status.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Your email won't be published


Disclaimer: Comments here reflect the author's views alone. Insulting or using offensive language against individuals, communities, religion, or the nation is illegal.

Tags:
Modi Suhel Khan Haj Pilgrimage 2023 India-Saudi Arabia Relations Indian Muslim Pilgrims Lady Without Mehram Policy