Srinagar, Mar 22: In a strongly worded open letter addressed to the CEO of the Hajj Committee of India, Saima Shafi, popularly known as Kral Koor, has raised serious concerns over the exclusion of female State Hajj Inspectors (SHIs) and trainers for Kashmiri women Hajis. She termed the absence of female SHIs as a clear case of gender discrimination, making the pilgrimage difficult and uncomfortable for women.
Shafi highlighted that no female SHI or trainer has been appointed from Jammu and Kashmir this year, despite the specific needs of Kashmiri women, many of whom are elderly and uneducated. She stressed the importance of female SHIs who can speak the native language and provide guidance on sensitive topics related to women.
Sharing her personal experience from last year’s Hajj, Shafi revealed the struggles faced by Kashmiri women due to the absence of female SHIs, especially during visits to Riyaz-ul-Jannah, Mina, and Arafat, where women have separate tents. She warned that the same issues are likely to repeat this year if corrective measures are not taken.
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The letter calls for the appointment of female SHIs from Kashmir, arguing that Hajj is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and women deserve proper guidance and support. Shafi urged the Hajj Committee of India to address the issue promptly to ensure Kashmiri women Hajis receive the assistance they rightfully deserve.
Shafi can be reached at: [email protected]
