Nagpur: An alleged arbitrary and last-minute shift in Haj embarkation points has left several pilgrims from Nagpur and surrounding regions distressed, after many were moved to the Mumbai departure list without prior notice.The sudden change disrupted travel plans for pilgrims who had been preparing for months to depart from Nagpur. Many now face logistical challenges, additional travel costs, and uncertainty.Sources said that in several cases, members of the same family have been assigned to different departure centres, forcing them to travel separately. Former Maharashtra cabinet minister Anees Ahmed termed the move “insensitive” and “poorly planned.” He said the abrupt change has caused confusion and emotional distress among pilgrims, many of whom are elderly or require assistance during the journey.“Haj is a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual journey. Pilgrims prepare well in advance — financially and emotionally. Such sudden changes not only disturb their plans but also impose an unfair financial burden,” he said.Ahmed also flagged the lack of transparency, stating that such decisions weaken trust in the system. He emphasised that Nagpur is a crucial embarkation point for pilgrims from Vidarbha and nearby regions, and any changes affecting it must be handled with fairness.A formal deputation has been submitted through the Maharashtra State Haj Committee to the Haj Committee of India and Union minister of minority affairs, Kiren Rijiju, seeking immediate intervention.With the Haj season approaching, affected pilgrims have urged authorities to resolve the issue at the earliest, ensuring that their journey begins without further stress or uncertainty.
