'Administration Report of the Persian Gulf for the Year 1936' [‎15r] (29/74)

17
Foreign residents are still apt to be treated with suspicion by local offi
cials, though an outward semblance of friendship is maintained. But offi
cials in general and notables are prohibited from dealings with the Consu
late. No incidents have occurred during the year in which foreign subjects
were involved.
The attempt at westernisation of the country has proceeded vigorously
in Shiraz. Following on the imposition of European dress on dwellers in
town and village, the unveiling of women has been accomplished almost
universally and with surprising absence of disturbance. The "chuddur'*
is practically never seen in the streets of Shiraz now. Such women as
object, mostly of the older generation, keep to their houses. Any opposi
tion which there may have been seems to have died down. Early in the
year receptions were given at which officials and members of guilds and
trades paraded with their wives. Public baths and conveyances were closed
to veiled women, but the example set by the womenfolk of the large garri
son did much to effect the change amongst the civilian population.
There are still a good many mullahs to be seen about in turban and
abba but the number has been reduced. Their influence and prestige seems
for the present to have disappeared with the transfer of many of their func
tions to other administrative departments and the prohibition of public
religious observances such as muharram processions and public prayers.
The attention of the younger generation has been turned to athletics,
football and other outdoor games. A Boy Scout troop, 700 strong, has been
organised in Shiraz which received the visit of colleagues from Isfahan
towards the close of the year. Military drill has been taught to the senior
members of the High School by instructors from the local barracks.
Tribal affairs. —Nothing of note has occurred during the year amongst
the Qashgai or Khamseh tribes. At the end of the year there were rumours
of restlessness amongst the Boir Ahmedi of Kuhgilu, who resent the activi
ties of the authorities to settle the tribes in defined areas. Very little pro
gress has been made as yet in actual settlement except at Tul-i-Khosrau
where buildings have been put up as permanent dwellings for nomad
settlers. The tribes are all controlled under military governors, but much
migration still takes place at the usual seasons. The economic consequen
ces of complete prohibition are doubtless realised.
Road Guard services have been extended still more during the year
and security exists on all the main roads, except for occasional incidents
in remoter districts.
The Qawam-ul-mulk has married his eldest son to a daughter of the
Shah. It is believed that they may take up residence in Shiraz. The
Qawam himself together with many of his near relatives and those of the
late Saulet-ed-douleh continues to live in Tehran.
The Qawam's munshi A term used in the Middle East, Persia and South Asia to refer to a secretary, assistant or amanuensis. Munshis were employed in the British administration in the Gulf. bashi, a wealthy man, who disappeared in 1935
and was given out to have been murdered or to have committed suicide, is
believed to be in prison in Tehran. His house at Shiraz was taken over by
the Governor-Geueral, for use as his headquarters.
Local administration. —The five members of the Mejliss for Fars con
tinue to be Mohammed Mehdi Nemazian (formerly Nemazi), Hadji Ghulam
Hussein Malek, Mohammed Taqi Shankai Shirazi, Ahmed Kawami and
Hadji Seyyed Abu Taleb Kazeruni.
His Excellency Abul Fath Doulatshahi arrived early in the year as
Governor -General of Fars, his predecessor having been appointed Minister
of Communications. He was previously for many years Governor of
Tehran. He is less popular in the Province and less energetic than his
predecessor, while his personal debts and habits do not enhance the respect
due to his position. Action has been taken against him in the Courts by
his creditors and complaints against his grasping tendencies have gone to
Tehran. He incurred unpopularity, the Shirazi being a lover of art, by
46(C) ExAffairsDept