Of these pilgrims, 50% were women with 3,040 women having performed Haj after the Union government ensured Muslim women can perform Haj without Mehram (male companion) in 2018. This year too, more than 2,300 women had applied to perform Haj without Mehram. These women pilgrims will be allowed to go to Haj 2021 on the basis of this year’s application. Women pilgrims who file a new application for the journey will also be considered for Haj next year. This decision is taken to ensure Haj is performed in a safe manner from a public health perspective while observing all preventative measures and the necessary social distancing protocols.”

Source: The Hindu June 23, 2020 06:54 UTC