The Haj Committee recently announced a surprise hike in airfares for pilgrims traveling to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. The increase is a one-time revision, and all pilgrims, regardless of their departure city, will have to pay the extra amount. The reason behind the hike is the sharp rise in Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) prices following the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The hike is not just a few hundred rupees; it's a whopping Rs 10,000 extra per pilgrim. This means that pilgrims will now have to shell out more money for their once-in-a-lifetime dream trip. The Haj Committee has asked pilgrims to pay the extra amount by May 15.

The decision has sparked a lot of controversy, with opposition leaders and critics accusing the government of burdening ordinary pilgrims. They say that the hike is unfair and that pilgrims are already saving money for years to be able to afford the trip.

The government, however, has defended the decision, saying that they managed to limit the increase sought by airlines. Minority Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said that they ensured the hike was restricted to just $100, saving each pilgrim a significant amount.

The controversy comes at a time when aviation fuel prices for international airlines have increased by 5 per cent. This is the second straight monthly hike, and it's expected to impact flights to Saudi Arabia for Haj pilgrims.