This Article is From Oct 24, 2016

Haji Ali Dargah To Give Women Complete Access In 4 Weeks

Haji Ali Dargah To Give Women Complete Access In 4 Weeks

Haji Ali Dargah draws tens of thousands of worshippers every year.

Highlights

  • Women to be allowed into core area near tomb of Sufi saint
  • Trust running 15th-century mosque says all-access for women in 4 weeks
  • Ban on women in inner part was imposed in 2012
New Delhi: Women will have the same access to the famous Haji Ali Dargah in Mumbai, the Supreme Court was informed today.

The trust that governs the mosque said it will allow women to enter what has been the men-only inner sanctum or core area of the shrine.

In August, the Bombay High Court said restricted entry for women is illegal, bolstering a nationwide campaign aimed at securing women their religious rights and allowing them entry into all places of worship.

The trust today said it needs four weeks to arrange for women to visit the part that houses the tomb of Sufi saint Haji Ali who is buried there.

The 15th century shrine, built on an islet 500 metres from the city's coast, can only be reached at low tide and draws tens of thousands of worshippers every year.
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