Calls for an urgent investigation into complaints over the level of services provided by some Haj campaigns have been made weeks before licensed operators are due to be officially announced.
The demand has been spearheaded by Strategic Thinking Bloc spokesman MP Khalid Bu Onk, who said the Justice, Islamic Affairs and Endowments Ministry must investigate complaints filed by pilgrims and ensure that those responsible for any shortcomings are held accountable.
The complaints were reportedly submitted to the ministry in May, but concerns remain over the lack of action taken so far.
Among the cases highlighted is that of a Bahraini couple who paid around BD13,000 for a VVIP Haj package, only to discover that the accommodation provided to them was a room designated for people with disabilities.
The case has raised fresh questions over whether some Haj campaigns are delivering the standards promised to pilgrims who pay premium prices for enhanced services.
“We demand that the ministry open an urgent investigation into what has been raised regarding the level of services provided by one of the Haj campaigns and announce the findings transparently,” said Mr Bu Onk.
“Any party proven to have failed in its responsibilities must be held accountable. Where serious violations are established, we believe the campaign should face decisive action, including termination of its licence or suspension for three years.”
He stressed that stronger monitoring and clearer regulations were needed to prevent similar incidents from being repeated.
“Haj is a sacred journey and pilgrims should be able to perform their religious duties with peace of mind and dignity,” he said.
The bloc’s call comes at a particularly important time, with registration for Haj campaigns beginning now, while the official list of licensed operators is expected to be announced in October.
Mr Bu Onk said this made it essential for the ministry to address outstanding complaints before operators are approved and pilgrims commit their money to packages.
“Prevention is better than dealing with complaints after pilgrims have travelled. The standards, services and obligations of every campaign must be clear, monitored and enforced before licences are granted,” he said.
Strategic Thinking Bloc president MP Ahmed Al Salloom, who also chairs Parliament’s financial and economic affairs committee and serves as Bahrain Chamber treasurer, backed the call for greater oversight.
He said the authorities should ensure that licensed Haj operators meet the required standards before being allowed to receive pilgrims.
“The issue is not simply about a commercial service. Haj campaigns are entrusted with the comfort, safety and well-being of citizens undertaking one of the most important journeys of their lives,” Mr Al Salloom said.
He called for complaints to be examined objectively and for corrective measures to be taken wherever necessary.
“The law and regulations must be applied firmly and fairly. If an investigation establishes serious negligence or violations, there must be consequences proportionate to the offence,” he added.
The MPs also urged pilgrims to carefully examine the services included in their chosen packages, particularly when paying for premium or VIP arrangements.
The bloc said transparency, accountability and effective supervision were vital to maintaining confidence in Bahrain’s Haj services and ensuring that pilgrims receive what they have paid for.
The pilgrimage, the fifth pillar of Islam, is due in May 2027.
However, due to quota numbers set by Saudi Arabian authorities, arrangements are made well in advance.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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