New Delhi, June 3: Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, alongside Delhi Haj Committee Chairperson Kausar Jahan, welcomed the first group of Haj pilgrims returning to India on Tuesday.
During a media interaction, Minister Rijiju emphasized that millions of Muslims from India undertake the Haj pilgrimage every year. The Indian government ensures that every pilgrim completes their journey safely and returns home. This year, preparations for Haj were executed exceptionally well, with arrangements made from the outset. Pilgrims travel at their own expense, with the Haj Committee of India and tour operators managing the logistics.
Rijiju addressed some incidents that went viral on social media, where a few individuals attempted to misbehave. He clarified that adherence to local laws in Saudi Arabia is essential, and interference from outsiders is not permissible. Subsequently, the authorities provided guidance to those involved.
Regarding some logistical issues faced by pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, Rijiju attributed these to technical difficulties, specifically due to restrictions on luggage weight caused by runway repairs in Srinagar. He assured that this was not a failure on the part of the Indian government.
The minister confirmed that all Haj pilgrims are safe and that their return process has commenced. He noted that completing the Haj pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina is a lifelong aspiration for every Muslim. Rijiju commended the efforts of all relevant departments, including the Ministries of Minority Affairs, External Affairs, Home Affairs, Health, and Civil Aviation.
He mentioned that preparations began immediately after signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Saudi Arabia. Welcoming the group, he praised Kausar Jahan and her team at the Delhi Haj Committee for their hard work.
Kausar Jahan stated that June 2 marks the first day of returning pilgrims under Haj 2026, with 375 individuals completing their sacred journey. She extended heartfelt congratulations to all, emphasizing that the government’s priority is the safety, convenience, and needs of the pilgrims. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, efforts are continuously made to enhance facilities for Haj pilgrims.
In a follow-up post, Jahan expressed warm wishes for the safe return of the 375 pilgrims in the first batch of Haj 2026. She highlighted that the government has prioritized the safety, convenience, and special needs of Haj pilgrims this year as well. Despite global challenges, effective management and dedicated efforts have made the Haj journey smoother, safer, and more successful than ever. This commitment to service, sensitivity, and good governance reflects the Modi government’s identity.
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