Page 427 - PERSIAN 8 1931_1940_Neat

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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 involved1.
The attempt at westernisation of the country has proceeded vigorously
fn 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 ether 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 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-General, for use as his headquarters.
Local administration.—The five members of the Mejliss for Pars con­
tinue to be Mohammed Mehdi Nemazian (formerly Nemazi), Hadji Ghulam
•Hussein Malek, Mohammed Taqi Shankai Shirazi, Ahmed Kawami and
Hadji Seyved Abu Taleb Kazeruni.
His Excellency Abul Path Doulatshahi arrived early in the year as
Governor-General of Pars, 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. lie incurred unpopularity, the Shirazi being a lover of art, by
46(C) ExAfTniisDcpt '