Chicago – May 02, 2026
Indian Haj pilgrims staying in the Azizia area of Makkah have alleged severe overcrowding, poor hygiene, and mismanagement in accommodation arranged for them during the 2026 pilgrimage season.
According to reports and videos shared on social media, some pilgrims claimed that as many as 16 people were being housed in a single room, with one washroom shared among them, while wastewater was seen entering rooms and washroom areas remained unclean.
The matter drew attention after AAP MP Sanjay Singh shared a video describing the conditions as “shameful” and demanding immediate intervention from the Haj Committee of India.
Pilgrims in the footage said they had paid around Rs 4 lakh each but were facing cramped spaces, broken lifts, dirty floors, and inadequate basic facilities. Some also alleged that families were being separated, making the stay more difficult for elderly pilgrims and women.
The Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia acknowledged the complaints and said the issue had been flagged for urgent review, while the Indian Haj Pilgrims Office said welfare teams were assessing the situation. The complaints have triggered wider criticism over the quality of arrangements and the treatment of pilgrims who say they expected safe, clean, and dignified accommodation.
