The Chairperson of the Haj Committee, UT Ladakh, Mohd Ali Majaz, chaired a meeting on November 13 at the Conference Hall, TFC, Kargil, to review feedback from Haj 2024 and discuss preparations for Haj 2025.

The meeting was attended by Haj Committee members Mohd Ali Chandan, Zaheer Hussain Babar, and Nazir Ahmad; Khadim-e-Hujjaj, Aga Syed Altaf; Accounts Officer Zakir Hussain; Assistant Haj Officer Haji Ali; former pilgrims, and other relevant officials.

It was noted that 251 pilgrims have been selected for Haj 2025, including 42 from Leh and the remainder from Kargil district.

Councilor GM Pore, Syed Ali, retired ZEO Mehfooz Hussain, Aga Syed Kazimi Mousavi, Aga Syed Altaf, Ghulam Nabi Zia, and other recent pilgrims shared their experiences. They commended the facilities provided by the Haj Committee but also highlighted issues faced during their pilgrimage, such as challenges with Maktab changes, limited washroom facilities, and drinking water access.

Suggestions for improvement included designating a single building for all Ladakhi pilgrims, creating groups with dedicated Khadims for Ladakhis, increasing the number of Khadim-e-Hujjaj, and providing religious guides to support pilgrims throughout their journey.

Chairperson Majaz emphasized that the primary goal of the meeting was to gather insights from pilgrims on challenges faced during Haj. He assured that their concerns would be conveyed to the relevant higher authorities, with steps taken to enhance facilities and services for future pilgrimages.

Haj Committee members also expressed their commitment to streamlining the process and improving facilities for Ladakhi pilgrims in future years.