In brief
Zakia Jafri, born in Madhya Pradesh, became a pillar of strength for the survivors of the Gujarat riots, dedicating her life to fighting for their rights even as she faced great personal loss.
Zakia Jafri, a revered advocate for justice and human rights, passed away on February 2 at her daughter’s home in Ahmedabad, India, at the age of 86. Her journey began in 2002 when her husband, Ehsan Jafri, a prominent social figure, was brutally murdered during the horrific communal riots in Gujarat. Over 1,000 lives, mostly of Muslims, were lost in that tragic upheaval which began after an incident involving a train fire that killed Hindu pilgrims, igniting widespread violence against the Muslim community.Zakia’s fight for justice spanned nearly two decades as she directly confronted high-ranking officials, including Narendra Modi, who was then Gujarat’s Chief Minister. She accused him of complicity in the violence. Throughout this relentless pursuit, Jafri exhibited incredible resilience; human rights activist Teesta Setalvad described her as the "mother of all the survivors of 2002," praising her dignity and fortitude in the face of adversity.Born on January 15, 1939, in Rustampur, Madhya Pradesh, Zakia was part of a well-to-do farming family. After marrying Ehsan Jafri in 1962, she settled in Ahmedabad, where the couple became involved in social work. Her legacy as a crusader for justice has inspired many in India and beyond. Zakia Jafri's passing marks the end of an era, leaving behind a profound impact on the fight for justice for the victims of the Gujarat riots.
