The worst disaster during Haj of 2015 deserves global sympathy and condolences for bereaved and suffering relatives. History of 25 years of disaster free period must be considered before outright blaming Saudi Arabia's government. Disasters have occurred in many countries, e.g. at social/political gatherings, football matches, distribution of goodie/freebies and music festivals. No government is blamed.
Saudi Arabian government must share blame with Muslim countries who allow pilgrimage without prior etiquette training or experience of holy event. Haj disaster can be avoided by controlling numbers of pilgrims. Peak period attendance must be permitted only to those over 65 years. This will spread 2 million pilgrims over the year instead of cramming them in 5 days without loss of revenue. This will help to stress that Haj is not a tourist adventure, but spiritual journey that needs strong body, mind and spiritual maturity gained with age. Holy pilgrimage must be a pleasure for host and pilgrim.
Ramesh Jhalla
By email
