Khatna, also referred to as Khafz/Khafd, is a form of female genital cutting (FGM/C) that involves the partial or total removal or injury of female genital organs for non-medical reasons.
The procedure can vary in extent—from nicking or the removal of the clitoral hood (commonly classified as Type I) to more invasive forms such as the removal of the clitoris and labia (Type II), and in its most severe form, infibulation, where the vaginal opening is narrowed through stitching.
In India, khatna is predominantly practiced within the Dawoodi Bohra Muslim community, where it is typically carried out on girls around the age of 6–7 years and often involves removing the clitoral hood. In some parts of Kerala, the practice has also been reported among certain Sunni communities, where it may be performed as early as the 40th day after the birth of a girl child.
Reasons: The continuation of khatna is rooted in long-standing misconceptions—such as beliefs around hygiene, attempts to control female sexuality, and the mistaken idea that it is a religious requirement.
Khatna has no medical benefits. On the contrary, it can lead to serious health consequences. In the short term, it may cause severe pain, bleeding, and infections. Over time, it can result in chronic pain, cysts, complications in childbirth, infertility, and lasting psychological trauma.
Human Rights violation. Global organisations such as UNICEF, WHO, and UNFPA regard FGM as a violation of the rights of girls and women, affecting their health, safety, and bodily autonomy.
Important context: Not Required by Islam: While some communities, including the Dawoodi Bohra, cite tradition or religious belief for the practice, many Islamic scholars and religious authorities have stated that FGM/C has no basis in the Quran. silence to scrutiny, which is a significant step in social change.
Today, increasing awareness and open dialogue are helping bring this once-silent issue into public scrutiny—an important step toward ending the practice and protecting future generations.