Ajmer Dargah License Rule Triggers Intense Backlash
The Ajmer Sharif Dargah in Ajmer stirred major controversy after the management announced that all traditional caretakers — the Khadim community — must obtain official licences to perform duties. This marks the first time in 75 years that the shrine imposed a formal licence requirement for its hereditary caretakers.
The decision, issued by the Dargah Committee under the directives of the Centre and based on security audits, aims to regulate services and ensure better management for pilgrims. Officials say only licensed Khadims will serve during pilgrimages and large events coming up soon.
But the licence mandate provoked strong opposition. The main Khadim-representing body, Anjuman Committee, led by secretary Syed Sarwar Chishti, rejected the rule outright. He called the decree a “Tughlaqi firman” — an autocratic edict — and vowed to never accept it. He argued that Khadims have served the shrine for centuries without licence and such orders trample on their ancestral religious rights.
Chishti threatened massive protest if the rule persists. He warned that thousands of Khadim families and millions of devotees will rally to oppose the “unjust” licence order.
The clash exposes a deeper conflict — between heritage-rooted religious customs and modern administrative demands of security and regulation. Experts say the move may stir more unrest ahead of the shrine’s upcoming Urs festival, when millions visit the Dargah.
The Dargah Committee stands firm. Its leaders claim the licensing rule falls under the old 1955 shrine law and court directives. They insist the rule will only enhance security, accountability, and management of pilgrimage traffic
The debate now shifts to legal grounds. The Khadim community considers challenging the rule. They demand transparent dialogue and restoration of their traditional rights if the licence requirement fails to respect centuries-old customs.
