The Best of Amaliah Straight to Your Inbox

Honouring Celine Dookhran

by in World on 26th July, 2017

Many will have heard the reports of Celine Dookhran’s death – a 19 year old who aspired to become a make-up artist and grew up in South London.

Her body was found at an address in Kingston Upon Thames on Wednesday the 19th of July after being kidnapped and raped. A post-mortem examination revealed the cause of Celine Dookhran’s death was a neck wound. A second woman, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, was also kidnapped alongside Celine, raped and attacked. She has been treated earlier this week for wounds and injuries at a hospital in South London. Two men will be appearing at the Old Bailey in August over Celine’s murder.

There has been much controversy over this story and the way it has been reported. There are various accounts of the story and whilst the media have portrayed it as an honour killing, other sources protest this and share a different account: but a murder nonetheless. The continuous decades of violence against women – in particular the use of rape against these two young women following their kidnapping – is a narrative that is in dire need of being addressed and spoken of.

Despite the speculation and outrage over the inaccurate reports about the story, it is important that we honour Celine and take the time to remember that someone has lost a life, that a family have lost a daughter and a sibling and that many have lost a dear friend. I hope we’re able to remember her aspirations, and for all the beautiful things she was known for.

I also hope that we’re all able to honour Celine in our du’ās. May Allāh grant her the very highest ranks in Jannah, forgive her sins, and grant her the privilege of seeing His beautiful face in Jannah.