https://global.inc/magazine/f/lenin-raghuvanshi-a-trailblazer-in-human-rights-advocacy
Lenin Raghuvanshi: A Trailblazer in Human Rights Advocacy
Lenin Raghuvanshi, born into a higher-caste Hindu family on May 18, 1970, stands as a formidable figure in the ongoing battle against the deeply ingrained caste system in India. With a lineage rooted in social activism, including a grandfather who was a Gandhian freedom fighter, Raghuvanshi's early encounters with the caste system within his own upbringing ignited a fervent commitment to social transformation.
Graduating in Ayurveda, Modern Medicine, and Surgery from the State Ayurvedic Medical College, Gurukul Kangari, Haridwar, in 1994, Raghuvanshi embarked on his journey into social activism by assuming the presidency of the Uttar Pradesh chapter of the United Nations Youth Organisation at the age of 23 in 1993.
Recognizing the omnipresence of casteism in various facets of life, Raghuvanshi resolved to amplify the voices of the oppressed. In 1996, he co-founded the People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR) alongside his life partner, Shruti Nagvanshi, historian Mahendra Pratap, musician Vikash Maharaj, and poet Gyanedra Pati.
In 1999, Raghuvanshi expanded his impact by establishing Jan Mitra Nyas, a community-based organization supported by ActionAid, aimed at enhancing education in villages near Varanasi. His election to the executive council of Voice of People in 2001, supported by Child Rights and You (CRY), further solidified his commitment to children's rights.
Raghuvanshi's unwavering pursuit of justice led him to expose bonded labor issues, filing an FIR against the village head of Belwa in 2002. Despite facing threats and retaliation, he persevered in his activism, conceptualizing the 'Jan Mitra Gaon' project in 2004 to eradicate child labor and improve education in villages.
His influence transcended borders as he played a pivotal role in the People's SAARC convention in 2005, resulting in the formation of the South Asian People's Forum.
Raghuvanshi's advocacy extends to his call for a neo-Dalit movement, aspiring to dismantle the caste system and establish a society founded on equal dignity for all humankind.
His tireless efforts have garnered numerous accolades, including the 2021 Global Pluralism Award Honourable Mentions and recognition as one of the 11 Human Rights Activists in India by India Times in 2021.
Beyond his activism, Raghuvanshi contributes articles to local, national, and international publications. His latest book, "Justice, Liberty, Equality: Dalits in Independent India," sheds light on cases of Dalit atrocities and underscores the imperative need for social change within the Indian human rights machinery.
In various capacities, such as being part of the editorial board of Torture Journal and the advisory board at the Journal of Transdisciplinary Peace Praxis, Raghuvanshi continues to shape the discourse on human rights globally.
At the G20 Interfaith Summit 2023, Raghuvanshi, alongside Shruti, showcased their commitment to addressing global challenges, emphasizing the transformative potential of interfaith collaboration. This serves as a testament to Raghuvanshi's dedication to driving positive change on a global scale.
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