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Haj pilgrims face religious risks from scented tissues on flights

A simple airline amenity could invalidate a sacred journey. Now, a Muslim organization demands urgent changes to protect Haj pilgrims from unintended violations.

The image shows an engraving of a man with a long beard and a turban, surrounded by a frame of...
The image shows an engraving of a man with a long beard and a turban, surrounded by a frame of snakes. At the bottom of the image, there is text which reads "Abdul Jassa, the founder of the Islamic faith".

Haj pilgrims face religious risks from scented tissues on flights

The Raza Academy has called for a ban on perfumed tissues for Haj pilgrims travelling in Ihram. According to the group, airlines—including Air India—are currently providing scented tissues with meals, which violates religious rules during the pilgrimage. In a letter to Haj Committee of India CEO Shanavas C., the Academy stressed that fragrances are strictly forbidden while in Ihram. The state of Ihram, observed during Hajj and Umrah, prohibits the use of any perfumes or scented products.

Pilgrims flying with Air India have reportedly received meals accompanied by perfumed tissues. The Academy warned that using such items could lead to religious penalties for those in Ihram. To prevent further issues, the organisation has urged authorities to instruct airlines to replace scented tissues with plain, unscented alternatives for the duration of the journey.

The request aims to ensure compliance with Ihram guidelines for all pilgrims. If approved, airlines would need to adjust their in-flight supplies before serving Haj travellers. The move could affect thousands of passengers heading to Saudi Arabia for the pilgrimage.

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