"Resilience Unveiled: A Woman's Fight for Justice and Livelihood, Aided by Goats"

 

Introduction: In a poignant narrative of unwavering determination, Pratapi, a 35-year-old woman residing in Raup, Ghasiya Basti, Robertsganj, Sonbhadra, shares the arduous journey she embarked upon to secure her husband's release. This account reveals the harsh realities of the legal system, the persistence required to seek justice, and the profound sacrifices made in the name of love and freedom. Pratapi's compelling story underscores the pivotal role that goats play as tools for women survivors, not only providing crucial livelihood support but also serving as symbols of justice and sources of psychosocial assistance.

Pratapi's Testimony:

My name is Pratapi, and my husband's name is Nandalal. He works as a contract laborer in Chennai and had come home for a brief visit before his return. Little did we know that our lives would take a distressing turn that day.

A Fateful Encounter: While in Almora, Robertsganj, my husband, and I were at an ATM where his contractor withdrew 3000 rupees. As we were conversing, my husband, who had consumed alcohol, was approached by Sub-Inspector Ravindra Yadav, stationed in the area. What followed was a horrifying episode that changed our lives forever.

A Brutal Arrest: Without warning, the sub-inspector began to mercilessly beat my husband with a baton. My husband's cries for help pierced the air, prompting me to intervene. I approached the sub-inspector, only to be met with verbal abuse and threats. He chased me away, warning that he would summon the police to subject me to the same brutality. My husband was subsequently taken to the Robertsganj police station.

The Grueling Ordeal: Arriving at the police station the following morning, I was met with a distressing sight. My husband bore the marks of severe police brutality, yet his pleas went unheard. With no financial resources to spare, I embarked on a daunting journey to secure his release.

Sacrifices Made: To finance my husband's legal defense, I had to make unimaginable sacrifices. I sold our livestock, including pigs and goats, and handed over the proceeds to a lawyer. The legal battle was financially draining, with the lawyer estimating a cost of approximately 90,000 rupees to secure my husband's freedom.

Desperation and Determination: My desperation led me to sell our land and our humble hut. I even resorted to begging for funds, all while bearing the burden of a pregnancy that had reached eight months. The charges against my husband were baseless, as he had been falsely accused of robbery.

A Mother's Struggle: Each court hearing demanded my presence, and I would leave behind my responsibilities to attend. At this time, I had five small children to care for, and their needs became increasingly difficult to meet. The memory of those trying times continues to haunt me—a pregnant woman, begging for sustenance and shelter while tirelessly pursuing my husband's release in a mere six months.

Empowerment Through Goats: Pratapi attests that goats were instrumental in her journey. These animals provided vital livelihood support, enabling her to navigate financial challenges during her quest for justice. Moreover, goats symbolized her pursuit of justice and offered psychosocial support in her moments of emotional turmoil. They became silent companions, imparting stability and resilience throughout her husband's legal battle.

Conclusion: Pratapi's story eloquently illustrates that goats are more than mere livestock; they are tools of empowerment that can uplift women survivors in their pursuit of justice and healing. These resilient animals offer not only livelihood support but also serve as symbols of justice and sources of psychosocial assistance, reaffirming the strength and determination of survivors like Pratapi as they rebuild their lives.