They were forcibly displaced from Markudi – a heart-wrenching upheaval that thrust them into the abyss of desperation. In their darkest hours, they pleaded for a lifeline, a glimmer of hope. Yet, the hands of empathy seemed strangely absent. Among these resilient souls was one of the finest artists, a master of karma and jhoomar, their talents waiting to paint life's canvas anew.
Then arrived the authorities, their uniforms a stark contrast against the backdrop of vulnerability. They interrogated the girls – the daughters of Ghasia tribes – their inquiry a flashpoint igniting a blaze of defiance. The Ghasia tribes united, their fierce determination clashing with the force of law, all for the dignity of their beloved daughters. In the fierce clash, many bore wounds, Phoolchand's hand shattered into three fractured pieces – a testament to their unwavering stand.
Yet, the battle had a heavy toll. A tragedy unfurled, darkening their lives further. Eighteen children, innocent souls, succumbed to the cruel grasp of malnutrition and hunger. It was a heart-rending chapter that etched pain onto their existence.
Amidst this bleak narrative, a beacon of hope emerged. Lenin Raghuvanshi, a fervent advocate for human rights, took up their cause and presented their agonizing tale before the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). The NHRC, echoing the cry for justice, issued a notice to the Chief Secretary of the Uttar Pradesh provincial Government. The media, a mirror to society, caught the glint of this struggle, reflecting it for the world to see. Organizations rallied, the fire of change spreading.
However, time passed, and the fervor dwindled. Amidst this ebb and flow, one steadfast force remained – PVCHR and its dedicated associates. On the 20th of August, 2023, a ray of compassion illuminated the horizon. With the generous support of Ms. Helma Ritshcer and her organization, the Indo-German Society, affiliated with Remschied, Germany, a gift blossomed. Three thousand plants, pregnant with the promise of fruits, were donated. A gesture not only for livelihood but also for nourishment – a symbol of rejuvenation, a reminder that amidst adversity, humanity persists.
A
momentous tree planting endeavor aimed at environmental preservation and
livelihood enhancement unfolded in Ghasiya Basti, Ramp Gram. The ambitious
initiative featured the planting of three thousand fruit-bearing trees,
including guava and lemon, as well as the introduction of saagwan (teak),
and bamboo saplings. Shri Pakauri Lal Kol, the esteemed Member of Parliament
for the district, inaugurated the initiative by planting saagwan saplings on
August 20, 2023, in Robertsganj, Raup Village.
This
initiative sought to combat persistent economic struggles and the prevalence of
child malnutrition within the Ghasiya Basti community of Raup Village.
Collaborating with the Indo-German Society and its affiliate, the Remscheid
Society, Germany, the Jan Mitra Nyas (JMN) / People's Vigilance Committee for
Human Rights (PVCHR), in conjunction with the International Rehabilitation
Council for Torture Victims (IRCT), orchestrated the planting of three thousand
fruit-bearing trees. The trees included guava, lemon, Moringa, saagwan, and
bamboo, collectively benefiting the community.
The
event was graced by the presence of the honorable representative and PRO of
Shri Pakauri Lal Kol, the Member of Parliament for the district. The initiative
aimed to address the persistent economic hardships and child malnutrition
challenges facing the Ghasiya Basti community. As part of this effort, six
guava and six lemon fruit-bearing trees were planted per family, symbolizing a
positive step toward their social and economic upliftment.
The
chief guest underscored the significance of tree planting for fostering a
healthy environment and secure life. He emphasized that such initiatives, aimed
at increasing the tree count, would contribute to a greener environment and
safeguard forest-dwelling creatures in the Sonbhadra region. This, in turn,
would ensure a secure environment for all living beings.
Agricultural
scientist Dr. Shailendra Singh, present on the occasion, expounded on the
methods and care necessary for successful tree planting and nurturing, ensuring
bountiful future harvests.
Distinguished
journalist Vijay Vineet, known for his consistent advocacy for marginalized
indigenous communities, also graced the event with his presence.
Dr.
Lenin Raghuvanshi, the founder and CEO of the organization, emphasized the dual
purpose of the large-scale tree planting in the Ghasiya community:
environmental conservation and the provision of nutritious fruits for children.
Program
Director Shirin Shabana Khan highlighted the significance of fruit consumption
for improved health and the correlation between fruit availability in
households and an enhanced standard of living. The program was conducted under
the guidance of Managing Trustee Shruti Nagvanshi.
The
event garnered substantial participation from various members of the
organization, including Abhimanyu Pratap, Mangala Prasad, Chhaya Kumari, Anand
Nishad, Rinku Pandey, Sushil Choubey, Pratima Pandey, Subhash Prasad,
Shobhanath, Brijesh, Vinod, Rajendra Prasad, Jyoti Kumari, Sanjay Kumar, and
Pintu Gupta, among others.
In
commemoration of this event, Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi composed a poignant poem
entitled "Resilience Blossoms: A Poetic Chronicle of Transformation in
Ghasia Ghetto." This verse celebrates the journey of the Ghasia community
and their collective efforts to overcome adversity, fostering resilience and
hope for a better future.
"Resilience Blossoms: A Poetic Chronicle
of Transformation in Ghasia Ghetto"
In Ghasia ghetto
of Raup village, a tale was told,
Of eighteen young souls, their stories of old.
Artists and dancers, of karma and jhumar,
Innocence extinguished, like a distant star.
We rallied, we fought, their cause we did
plead,
To NHRC we turned, in our hour of need.
With PVCHR and JanMitra Nyas by our side,
We battled the odds, with unwavering pride.
The National Human Rights Commission stood
tall,
In their diligent work, they answered the
call.
PVCHR and JMN, hearts beating as one,
For change and for justice, we tirelessly
spun.
No longer the specter of malnutrition and
strife,
The children's smiles bloomed, like flowers to
life.
Monuments stand, in memory profound,
Of eighteen young souls, forever renowned.
A building emerged, Sushil Tripathi's name,
A legend in journalism, his legacy aflame.
Children once scorned, by discrimination's
cruel hand,
Now in their own school, they rise and they
stand.
Parents, once burdened, with houses and land,
A transformation, like the touch of a magical
hand.
Human Rights Watch shed light on their plight,
Exposing the darkness, to bring justice to
light.
Today, PVCHR and JMN, joined hand in hand,
With Helam Ritscher's aid, across distant
lands.
From Germany's heart, the Indo-German Society
came,
Three hundred trees for hope, they lovingly
named.
For fruits and for nature, a haven anew,
In Ghasia ghetto, where dreams once few.
A tribe that endured police's harsh thrust,
Found solace in PVCHR's unwavering trust.
Psycho-social aid, legal support too,
To heal tortured hearts, to mend and renew.
IRCT from Denmark, a compassionate bond,
Goats and gardens to heal, like a soothing song.
Human emotion, humane relation, they mend,
Holistic rehabilitation, a message to send.
In this tapestry woven, of courage and care,
A legacy of love, compassion laid bare.
So let this poem echo, in the winds of change,
In the hearts of the ghetto, across every
range.
A tale of resilience, of hope's guiding light,
In the face of adversity, we emerged with
might.
On
December 4, 2009, Lenin Raghuvanshi Pens an Open Letter to the Prime Minister
of India: "Ensuring Fundamental Amenities for the Preservation and
Development of Raup as a Cultural Village, Aiding the Conservation of its
Enriching Heritage."
Subject: An Urgent Appeal for Cultural
Preservation and Human Rights Advancement: "Developing Raup as a Cultural
Village"
To,
The Honorable Prime Minister,
Government of India,
New Delhi.
Respected Sir,
Warm greetings from the Peoples' Vigilance Committee on Human
Rights (PVCHR).
I am writing to bring forth a pressing matter that concerns the
preservation of cultural heritage and the well-being of an indigenous
community. The Ghasia tribal people, along with the renowned artists of Karma
from Sonbhadra, India, have shared their vibrant culture with esteemed figures
such as former Prime Minister Mr. Rajiv Gandhi and other political leaders.
Their artistic expressions have graced stages, radio waves, and television
screens across the nation.
I would like to draw your attention to an invitation extended to
Mrs. Rukhmaniya, a member of the Ghasia tribal community, to share a meal with
you and Mrs. Srimati Soniya Gandhi at Teen Murti Bhawan, New Delhi, on November
24th, 2009. This event serves as a testament to the recognition of their
contributions to Indian culture.
I invite you to view Mrs. Rukhmaniya's testimony, which captures
the essence of their culture and struggles: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=99kWO4-a5F8
However, amidst their rich heritage, a heart-wrenching reality
unfolds. The culturally enriched indigenous people faced a devastating loss as
18 children succumbed to the consumption of wild and poisonous grasses,
"Chakwar," wild mushrooms, and substandard rice. While adults managed
to endure the poison's effects, innocent children fell victim due to the
horrific repercussions of police torture.
Phool Chand, a member of the Ghasia tribe, recounted an incident
from his past: "In 2001, some policemen demanded I arrange girls to
fulfill their desires. Upon my refusal, they subjected me to a brutal beating,
resulting in a broken bone. Men and women alike suffered merciless beatings
from those in khaki."
These injustices extend to over 55 families within the community.
Hanshu, a young member of the group, now lives with a deformed leg, a lasting
reminder of the brutality inflicted upon him. This narrative of abuse compelled
Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi, the Convener of PVCHR, to petition the National Human
Rights Commission (NHRC) on August 27, 2003(21997/24/2003-2004/FC). The NHRC intervened and prompted
urgent action from the authorities.
To understand the full extent of our efforts and the response from
NHRC, please visit: http://www.scribd.com/doc/21435051/Response-From-NHRC
PVCHR, in collaboration with compassionate donors and funding
organizations, including Ms. Parul Sharma of Sweden, DIG, In-Went, and
Misereor, supported the Ghasia tribal community. Initiatives such as distributing
rickshaws, goats, and educational materials, as well as constructing
playgrounds, aimed to improve their livelihoods and ensure children's
education.
Despite these endeavors, the 72 Ghasia families remain
marginalized, lacking access to land, water, electricity, healthcare, and
education. Their struggle for basic amenities prompted multiple protests at the
district headquarters in Sonbhadra. Unfortunately, even after inaugurating the
Sushil Tripathi School and community center, the administration has yet to
activate the school.
Mr. Pandhari Yadav, the District Magistrate of Sonbhadra,
inaugurated the school on February 16, 2009, emphasizing education's
importance. However, villagers have reported a lack of proper implementation
and access to government benefits.
For more information on these events, please visit:
Furthermore, on December 10th, 2009, Ms. Shruti Nagvanshi, a Core
Group Member of PVCHR, appealed to the District Magistrate of Sonbhadra and
Basic Siksha Adhikari (BSA) Sonbhadra, followed by another letter on December
15th, 2009, to the Secretary of Education in Lucknow.
For the full text of the letter to the Secretary of Education,
please visit: http://www.scribd.com/doc/10913997/Application-to-Secretary-Education-in-Relation-to-ala
In an endeavor to commemorate the hunger-related martyrs, PVCHR
and the Ghasia community erected a Martyrdom stone on January 20, 2007, with
Mr. Basil Fernando, the Executive Director of the Asian Human Rights Commission
(AHRC), and a young poet as guests of honor. The monument stands as a promise
to abolish hunger and suffering, while addressing the dire need for education,
healthcare, and employment.
To further illustrate this, please refer to the following links:
- http://www.scribd.com/doc/23652623/on-of-Martyr
- The Ghasia's commitment at the martyr's monument resonates:
labor is their right, and they strive to create a hunger-free zone.
However, the absence of proper infrastructure, education, and healthcare
has left 43 children malnourished, while women suffer from anemia, as
highlighted by the BBC and other media outlets.
For more insight, kindly explore the following URLs:
In light of these challenges, I humbly request your intervention
to fulfill the following demands and prevent further hunger-related deaths:
- Allocate land to the Ghasia tribes under section 122 (4 BF)
of the Zamindari Abolition Act and Land Reform Act. These tribal
communities have inhabited this land since 2000. The land's rightful
ownership is essential for their sustenance and livelihoods. Clarification
is needed as different authorities claim ownership; therefore, I urge a
thorough investigation.
- Initiate immediate school operations at the Sushil Tripathi
School and community center, ensuring quality education and the provision
of mid-day meals for the children of 72 families to combat hunger and
malnutrition.
- Activate the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)
center to address the health and nutritional needs of women and children
in the community.
- Commission an independent agency to conduct a high-level
investigation into instances of police brutality and torture against the
Ghasia community, ensuring justice and accountability.
- Facilitate the inclusion of Ghasia tribe members' names as
voters in the upcoming panchayat elections. Their right to vote was
secured after the intervention of the Chief Election Commissioner of
India.
- Transform Raup into a Sankriti Gaon (cultural village) to
safeguard and promote their cultural heritage, integrating it with
sustainable livelihood initiatives.
With heartfelt regards,
Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi
Convener
Peoples' Vigilance Committee on Human Rights
(PVCHR)
SA 4/2 A Daulatpur, Varanasi India
Note: All photographs captured by the distinguished journalist, Mr. Vijay Vineet.
#Raup #Ghasia #Sonbhadra #Tribal #PVCHR #JanMitraNyas #SushilTripathi
Response From NHRC by activist knowledge center
Ghasia Testimony by activist knowledge center
