Female Genital Mutilation in Pakistan's Dawoodi Bohra Community

In Pakistan, the Dawoodi Bohra community, a Shia Muslim sect originally from Gujarat, continues the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM) in secrecy. Estimates suggest that 75% to 85% of Dawoodi Bohra women in Pakistan undergo FGM, often performed in private homes or by medical professionals in cities like Karachi. Despite international attention on FGM in Africa, many Pakistanis remain unaware of its prevalence within their borders.

The practice is referred to as "circumcision" within the community and is performed on young girls. Mariam, a 27-year-old survivor, recalls undergoing FGM at age seven and still struggles with its effects. The global leader of the Dawoodi Bohra community, Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin, supports the practice, describing it as beneficial and emphasizing discretion.

Pakistan lacks specific legislation against FGM, and existing laws have not been used to prosecute the practice. The government acknowledged the issue in 2006 but has taken no action to stop it. The practice also affects young British girls of Pakistani origin, who are brought to Pakistan for the procedure.

According to the World Health Organisation, FGM has no health benefits and poses significant health risks. It involves removing healthy female genital tissue, leading to immediate and long-term health complications.