Chairman Haj Committee Ladakh, Ghulam Abass Abidi, during his first official visit to Kargil after assuming office, addressed a press conference on May 19 and outlined a comprehensive roadmap to strengthen Haj management and improve facilities for pilgrims in the Union Territory.

He was accompanied by committee members Sheikh Liyaqat Ali, Haji Ghulam Mohammad, Zahra Banoo, Ashay Mallo, Bilal Ahmad, and Mohammad Hussain during the press conference.

Expressing gratitude to the media and the public for their support, the Chairman stated that since the notification of the new Haj Committee on May 5, the team has been actively engaging with senior government officials and stakeholders to make the committee more effective, empowered, and responsive.

He informed that meetings had been held with key authorities, including Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, to raise and resolve several pending Haj-related issues.

Highlighting infrastructure development as a top priority, Abidi announced that land has been identified near Kargil Airport for the construction of a Haj House. He said the proposed land area is being expanded to accommodate a modern facility, and a Detailed Project Report (DPR) will soon be prepared with an estimated cost of ₹15–20 crore.

The Chairman further stated that the long-pending Passport Seva Kendra in Kargil is expected to become operational in the first week of June. He added that temporary passport camps would also be organised to facilitate applicants, while efforts are underway to establish the centre on a permanent basis. Similar demands from Drass and Sankoo sub-divisions are also being taken up with the concerned authorities.

Emphasising the importance of pilgrim welfare, Abidi said that Haj is a once-in-a-lifetime religious obligation for most Muslims, and the committee is committed to ensuring a smooth and well-guided experience for pilgrims. He informed that qualified religious scholars will be included to guide pilgrims during Haj, while senior citizens will be given priority in all arrangements. Special attention will also be provided to first-time pilgrims through proper orientation and support systems.

Addressing concerns regarding fare disparities between different embarkation points, the Chairman assured that the matter would be taken up with the Government of India and concerned authorities. He also stated that efforts would be made to streamline flight arrangements from 2027 onwards to ensure better coordination and convenience for pilgrims.

To improve management and coordination, the committee is considering a division-wise system for vaccination and application processes, enabling pilgrims from the same areas to travel together with better group cohesion.

During the visit, the Chairman and his team also held consultations with various religious and social organisations in Kargil, which provided valuable suggestions and feedback. He assured that these inputs would be incorporated into future planning.

Outlining the future roadmap, Abidi reiterated that the key priorities of the Haj Committee Ladakh include the establishment of a Haj House in Kargil, strengthening passport and documentation services, and enhancing facilities and coordination for pilgrims.

He also mentioned that similar facilities are being planned in Leh to cater to pilgrims and visitors, particularly during the winter season.

The Chairman concluded by seeking continued support and cooperation from the public, religious institutions, and the media, emphasising that collective efforts are essential to further improve Haj services in Ladakh.

During the visit, the committee also visited various places and interacted with several religious and social organisations as well as prominent personalities, seeking their guidance and cooperation in strengthening the functioning of the Haj Committee and enhancing facilities for pilgrims.