Zakia Jafri, who waged a two-decade-long legal battle seeking justice for the victims of the 2002 Gujarat riots, passed away in Ahmedabad on Saturday, February 1. She was the wife of former Congress MP Ehsan Jafri, who was among the 69 people killed in the Gulberg Society massacre during the riots. Zakia, who was 86 years old, died of an age-related illness.
Zakia had pursued legal action against high-ranking state officials, including the then Gujarat Chief Minister and current Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, alleging a larger conspiracy behind the communal violence.
Her legal journey, which began at the local courts, reached the Supreme Court as she challenged the Special Investigation Team's (SIT) clean chit to 63 persons.
The apex court, in June 2022, upheld the SIT's closure report, marking the end of her prolonged quest for accountability. The judgement also sparked controversy when observations made by the court led to the brief arrest of activist Teesta Setalvad, who had supported Zakia's fight for justice.
Teesta, who worked closely with Zakia over the years, announced the news of her passing on the social media platform X. "Zakia Appa a compassionate leader of d human rights community passed away just 30 minutes ago! Her visionary presence will be missed by d nation family friends & worrld! Tanveernhai, Nishrin, Duraiyaappa, grandkids we are with you! Rest in Power and Peace Zakia appa!,” wrote Teesta.
The Gulberg Society case, where Zakia lost her husband along with dozens of others, remains one of the most haunting episodes of the 2002 riots.