Srinagar, Oct 19 :
The Haj Committee of India (HCOI) would likely extend the dates for the submission of the ‘initial’ advance Haj payment and necessary documents for Haj 2025 (Hijri 1446), giving more time to pilgrims.
Currently, provisionally selected pilgrims are required to deposit the Advance Haj amount by October 21, 2024, and submit their documents by October 23, 2024.
A senior officer at Jammu and Kashmir Hajj Committee told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that although the last date for the submission of advance Haj amount is ending on 21 Oct, there were chances that dates may extend.
“Of total provisionally selected pilgrims for Hajj 2025, there is still 30 percent pendency for those who are yet to submit the advance amount. There may be chances that dates may be extended,” the official said.
The senior officer, however, urged upon the selected pilgrims to deposit the advance amount by 21 Oct, to avoid cancellation.
As per the official circular issued, all provisionally selected pilgrims must initially deposit Rs 1,30,300, which includes the advance Haj amount of Rs 1,28,000, a non-refundable processing fee of Rs 300, and miscellaneous dues of Rs 2,000.
Outlining the procedure, the circular states that payments can be made through online methods or bank branches, and documentation must include the Haj Application Form, medical certificates, passport copy with declaration and undertaking.
The circular states that the payment can be made through various online methods, including credit/debit cards, net banking, and UPI, via the official website (https: //hajcommittee.gov.in) or the “Haj Suvidha App”.
“Additionally, pilgrims may deposit the amount at any branch of SBI or UBI using a pay-in slip referencing their unique cover number”, states the circular.
The Haj Committee, through the circular, has also stressed on strict adherence to the deadlines, warning that failure to deposit the amount or submit required documents on time will result in the cancellation of the Haj seat—(KNO)