PVCHR, in collaboration with the United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture (#UNVFVT) and the International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims (#IRCT), recently initiated a series of folk schools to confront a deeply troubling incident and dismantle the culture of silence prevailing in the region. Spearheading this endeavor was Ms. Shirin Shabana Khan, Program Director at PVCHR, who underscored the fundamental rights enshrined in Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. Her comprehensive insights into various forms of intervention and government helplines enriched the discussions, drawing the participation of 45 individuals.
Despite the reassurances of Tehsildar Phoolchand Yadav that no charges would be brought forth, the community was dismayed to discover their names implicated in a case involving 117 people. The fear and sense of betrayal palpable in Asha's account reflect a loss of trust in the authorities and a vulnerability to being falsely accused.
The incident has had a lasting impact, instilling fear and uncertainty about their future, while raising concerns about their safety and security. Their plea for an impartial investigation and the dismissal of the cases against them echoes the need for justice and the restoration of their dignity. Asha's narrative serves as a poignant reminder of the hurdles faced by marginalized communities in their pursuit of fair treatment and equal access to essential resources.
Similarly, Suresh Giri Gosai's testimony sheds light on the precarious circumstances faced by him and his family following a tumultuous incident. The account delineates the challenges stemming from enduring issues of water and electricity shortages, which prompted the community to engage in peaceful protests. Notwithstanding the assurances given by the Tehsildar that no legal action would be taken, Suresh and his family were dismayed to find themselves implicated in a case.
The opacity of the process, exemplified by the authorities' refusal to provide a copy of the First Information Report (FIR) and their subsequent warning to secure bail or face further harm, underscores the vulnerability and fear experienced by the family. Suresh's depiction of the emotional and psychological toll on his well-being, coupled with the financial strain resulting from the need to arrange bail for his sons, offers a poignant insight into the pervasive ramifications of such incidents on marginalized communities.
His plea for a fair investigation and the aspiration for justice and security underscores the necessity for equitable treatment and due process within the legal system. Suresh's account serves as a compelling testament to the challenges confronted by individuals and families in asserting their rights and seeking redressal in the face of adversity and systemic injustices.
The ensuing discussion revolved around plans for further action on the case, culminating in the resounding chant, "Long live human dignity and freedom." Subsequently, the team journeyed from Mirzapur district to Sonbhadra district, where they visited the resilient community of Raup.
Within Raup, the team learned of the complete electrification of the Ghasia ghetto, a significant milestone attributed to the intervention of Member of Parliament Shri Pakauri Lal Kol and human rights activist Lenin Raghuvanshi. This development brought a renewed sense of hope to a marginalized community that has long grappled with adversity.
The recent electrification of the Ghasia ghetto in Raup, facilitated by the intervention of Member of Parliament Shri Pakauri Lal Kol and human rights activist Lenin Raghuvanshi, stands as a testament to the community's resilience and unwavering determination in the face of adversity. The interconnection between this narrative and PVCHR's ongoing dedication to advocating for justice and empowerment in marginalized communities highlights the profound impact of their tireless endeavors.
List of 12 Honored Survivors at the Ceremony in Kalwari Bazaar, Thana-Madhihan, Mirzapur District:
- Pintu Kesari
- Udaybhan
- Suresh Giri
- Rajesh Deva
- Babu Kumar
- Ratnesh Kumar
- Aasha Devi
- Krishnanand Goswami
- Suryabhan
- Anuj
- Manoj
- Ajay
https://pvchr.blogspot.com/2009/12/open-letter-to-provide-basic-amenities_04.html
https://pvchr.blogspot.com/2023/08/empowering-communities-through.html
https://pvchr.blogspot.com/2023/10/activist-lenin-raghuvanshis-plea-for.html
Please find rest of photographs of the events and the tour: