Thiruvananthapuram: The deadline for Haj pilgrims to submit their medical screening certificates has been extended to September 30, officials have said.
The Haj Committee of India announced the extension following the intervention of Keralam Haj Affairs Minister N Samsudheen, his office said in a statement.
The minister had earlier written to the Union Minority Affairs Ministry and the Haj Committee of India, highlighting the difficulties faced by pilgrims and seeking an extension of the deadline.
After completing the medical screening, pilgrims are required to upload the Primary Medical Screening and Fitness Certificate and a copy of the pay-in slip or online payment receipt on the Haj Committee of India portal, or submit physical copies to their respective State or Union Territory Haj Committees by October 1, 2026.
The committee has asked pilgrims to retain the original medical certificate and all investigation reports, as these will be required during Stage-II medical screening and vaccination.
The Haj Committee of India said a pilgrim found medically unfit under the prescribed fitness criteria will have their candidature cancelled, with the deposited amount refunded according to applicable provisions.
However, pilgrims found to have concealed or provided false information about their health or medical condition may face action, including forfeiture of the deposited amount and prosecution, as per the prevailing policy.
The State and Union Territory Haj Committees have been directed to coordinate with concerned authorities, maintain records of the screening process and report medically unfit cases promptly to the Haj Committee of India.
