PVCHR: "Empowering Communities Through Environmental Conservation: A Tale of Tree Planting and Social Upliftment in Ghasiya Basti"

Media Report on Planting of Three Thousand Trees at Ghasiya Ghetto in Sonbhadra :https://pvchr.blogspot.com/2023/08/media-report-on-planting-of-three.html

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