Upholding Human Rights: Challenges and Resilience

 In September 2011, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) of India took a significant stride in its commitment to safeguarding human rights by reconstituting the Core Group of NGOs. This endeavor, in alignment with Section 12(i) of The Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, underscores NHRC's pivotal role in engaging and collaborating with Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) dedicated to advancing and safeguarding human rights.

NHRC's longstanding tradition of nurturing partnerships with esteemed NGOs underscores the invaluable contributions these organizations make towards advancing human rights causes. Through their dedicated efforts and partnerships with NHRC, these NGOs have consistently championed human rights principles and advocated for marginalized and vulnerable communities.

The Core Group of NGOs serves as a crucial monitoring mechanism for consultation, offering constructive suggestions and insights to NHRC. Over the years, this collaborative effort has played a pivotal role in shaping NHRC's strategies and initiatives, ensuring a holistic approach to addressing human rights challenges.

The reconstitution of the Core Group reflects NHRC's renewed focus on civil, economic, social, and cultural rights, alongside its commitment to extending its outreach across diverse regions of the country. By ensuring diverse representation from various sectors and regions, NHRC aims to foster greater inclusivity and responsiveness to the evolving human rights landscape.

The newly constituted Core Group comprises esteemed individuals representing a wide spectrum of organizations and expertise. From advocating for the rights of disabled persons to championing child rights, Dalit empowerment, and women's rights, each member brings a wealth of experience and dedication to the table.

The terms of reference for the Core Group outline clear objectives, including identifying areas of cooperation between NHRC and NGOs, advising on crucial human rights issues, and facilitating meaningful interactions between the Commission and civil society. These objectives underscore the collaborative spirit that underpins NHRC's approach to human rights governance.

As NHRC embarks on this journey with the reconstituted Core Group, it reaffirms its commitment to promoting and protecting human rights for all. Through sustained collaboration and collective action, NHRC and its NGO partners strive to uphold the fundamental principles of dignity, equality, and justice for every individual.

Thus, keeping in mind especially the renewed focus of the Commission for the realization of Civil, Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights, as well as to extend the reach of the Commission to the different regions of the country to provide sectoral and regional representation, the Commission has reconstituted the Core Group of NGOs. The reconstituted members of the Core Group are as follows:

1. Mr. Javed Abidi
   Executive Director,
   National Centre for Promotion of Employment for Disabled People.

2. Mr. Suhas Chakma
   Director,
   Asian Centre for Human Rights.

3. Mr. Kailash Satyarthi
   Founder,
   Bachpan Bachao Andolan (BBA).

4. Ms. Rita Sarin
   Country Director,
   The Hunger Project-India.

5. Mr. Rakesh Jinsi
   Secretary General,
   SOS Children's Villages of India.

6. Mr. Mathews Philip
   Executive Director,
   South India Cell for Human Rights Education & Monitoring (SICHREM).

7. Ms. Sugatha Kumari
   Secretary,
   ABHAYA.

8. Ms. Puja Marwaha
   Chief Executive,
   CRY - Child Rights and You.

9. Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi
   Convener,
   People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR).

10. Mr. Paul Divakar
    Secretary General,
    National Campaign for Dalit Human Rights.

11. Dr. Ruth Manorama
    President,
    National Alliance of Women (NAWO).

12. Mr. Baghambar Patnaik
    Human Rights Activist and Adviser,
    Odisha Goti Mukti Andolan.

However, amidst these efforts, challenges persist. The recent ordeal faced by Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi, a grassroots activist and member of the reconstituted Core Group, sheds light on the complexities and dangers inherent in human rights work. Dr. Raghuvanshi's vocal advocacy and unwavering commitment to justice have made him a target of intimidation and false criminalimplications.

Dr. Raghuvanshi's experience underscores the urgent need for robust mechanisms to protect human rights defenders (HRDs) and address threats against them. The NHRC's acknowledgment of its responsibility to safeguard HRDs is commendable, as evidenced by recent statements and initiatives aimed at enhancing the protection and well-being of HRDs.

At a recent meeting convened by NHRC, several important recommendations were made to strengthen the protection of HRDs, including setting timeframes for addressing complaints, intervening in cases of false implication, and expediting trials involving HRDs. These recommendations reflect a concerted effort to address the challenges faced by HRDs and ensure their safety and security.

Despite these positive steps, Dr. Raghuvanshi's case highlights the need for greater accountability and transparency within NHRC. His persistent efforts to seek justice and accountability in the face of adversity serve as a reminder of the critical role played by HRDs in upholding human rights and democracy.

In conclusion, NHRC's reconstitution of the Core Group of NGOs represents a significant milestone in its ongoing commitment to promoting and protecting human rights. However, challenges persist, and the recent experiences of Dr. Raghuvanshi underscore the importance of strengthening mechanisms to protect HRDs and ensure accountability within NHRC.

Link: https://www.scribd.com/document/728005925/Upholding-Human-Rights-Challenges-and-Resilience

Upholding Human Rights: Challenges and Resilience by pvchr.india9214 on Scribd

"Empowering Communities Through Cultural Exchange: Insights from the Sahastrabuddhe Kool Sammelan"

In the annals of cultural confluence and societal upliftment, the third convention of the Sahastrabuddhe (Chitpawan Brahmin) Kool Sammelan, organized by Sahastrabuddhe Kool Pratisthan, stands as a beacon of excellence. Held on the 16th and 17th of December 2023 in the ancient city of Varanasi, this gathering was a testament to the tireless efforts of Shri Upendra Vinayak Sahasrabuddhe  which is supported by JanMItra Nyas (JMN), a public charitable trust dedicated to the welfare of marginalized communities for a better India.

At its core, JanMitra Nyas is committed to the welfare of marginalized communities, striving tirelessly for a better India. The convention served as a testament to their unwavering dedication to this noble cause, shedding light on their tireless endeavors. JMN and its Founder-Chief organizer, Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi, epitomized the essence of Indian diversity, constitutional values, and the spirit of Varanasi, aptly described as the "Ka’ba of Hindostan" by the illustrious poet, Mirza Ghalib.

Varanasi, with its rich tapestry of cultures and traditions, provided the perfect backdrop for such an event. Ghalib's ode to Banaras, encapsulated in his Persian Masnavi "Charagh – e – dair," beautifully portrays the city's allure and significance. In his poetic tribute, Ghalib, a Muslim by faith, expressed profound admiration and respect for Banaras, recognizing it as the spiritual epicenter of Hinduism.

The convention not only celebrated the cultural diversity of India but also underscored the importance of transcending religious boundaries. It highlighted the sagacity of embracing a true secular spirit, where mutual respect and universal love reign supreme.

Central to the convention's discourse was the role of the Chitpavan Brahmin community. Originating from the Konkan region of Maharashtra, this community has a storied history, evolving from humble beginnings as messengers and spies to prominent figures within the Maratha empire. Despite facing societal challenges in the past, the Chitpavans have risen to prominence, symbolizing resilience and adaptability.

Link: https://www.scribd.com/document/726242304/Illuminating-Excellence-JanMitra-Nyas-Sahastrabuddhe-Kool-Sammelan-Chronicle

 #Excellence #Diversity #SpiritofVaranasi #MirzaGhalib #Banaras

Illuminating Excellence: JanMitra Nyas' Sahastrabuddhe Kool Sammelan Chronicle by pvchr.india9214 on Scribd

Comprehensive Report on JanMitra Nyas Case Follow-Up and Impact Evaluation of Testimonial Therapy (TT) Funded by the United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture

 

I. Introduction

JanMitra Nyas (JMN) organized a systematic follow-up of 172 cases from 2023 and 12 cases from 2024, across multiple dates in February and March. This initiative was underpinned by the use of Psycho-social support through Testimonial Therapy (TT), consisting of four sessions per case. Additionally, the project involved evaluating meta-legal and legal interventions and verifying compensation for victims.

II. Project Background

The initiative is supported by The United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture, a trust fund managed by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. This fund is essential for providing medical, psychological, legal, and social assistance to nearly 50,000 survivors annually, contributing significantly to the rehabilitation of individuals affected by torture.

III. Testimonial Therapy (TT) and Its Efficacy

TT has been utilized as a core component of the psycho-social support offered. It involves survivors sharing their trauma stories in a structured environment, which aims to alleviate psychological distress. The therapy has shown significant improvement in several outcome measures:

• WHO-5 Well-Being Scale: Improvement from an average of 14.8 pre-therapy to 50.2 post-therapy.
• P-Scale: Shows a decrease in perceived social stigma and limitations, from 36.1 pre-therapy to 13.9 post-therapy.
• Pain Analogue: Reduction in reported pain levels from 3.1 to 0.94.
• Anger Analogue: Decrease in anger levels from 3.46 to 0.93.

These outcomes underscore the therapy’s effectiveness in enhancing the well-being and social participation of torture survivors.

IV. Qualitative Insights and Community Impact

In-depth interviews conducted with survivors provided additional insights into the therapy's long-term effectiveness and its broader impact on community empowerment. These qualitative accounts suggest that TT not only aids individual recovery but also fosters community solidarity and action towards social justice and rehabilitation.

V. Limitations and Future Directions

While the results are promising, the study acknowledges certain limitations:

• Design Concerns: The pre-post test design limits the ability to draw definitive causal conclusions about TT's efficacy.
• Drop-out Analysis: A low drop-out rate was noted, but reasons for discontinuation were not thoroughly analyzed, which might provide deeper insights into the therapy’s impact.
• Measurement Tools: The P-scale, though useful, requires further validation for this specific application.

VI. Ethical and Methodological Considerations

Future research should consider more comprehensive randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to better establish TT's effectiveness. However, ethical and resource considerations in conducting RCTs need careful planning, potentially using waiting-list controls to mitigate ethical concerns.

VII. Conclusion

JanMitra Nyas’s follow-up on torture cases using TT has contributed significantly to the recovery of survivors, both at individual and community levels. The support from the United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture has been crucial in this endeavor. Continued research and adaptation of the therapy based on comprehensive analysis and feedback will further enhance its applicability and effectiveness in rehabilitating survivors of torture.

VIII. Acknowledgments

Gratitude is expressed to the team members, interviewees, and especially the survivors who shared their experiences, enabling this comprehensive evaluation and ongoing improvement in therapy and support mechanisms.

JanMitra Nyas organized systematic follow-ups for 172 cases from 2023 on February 26, February 28, February 29, March 2, March 4, March 7, March 8, March 9, March 11, and March 15. The JMN team also discussed follow-ups on 12 cases from 2024. Additionally, we called 63 victims to the office for further consultations.

The evaluators, Shrin Sahaban Khan and Lenin Raghuvanshi, bring extensive experience and specialized expertise to the project. Shrin Sahaban Khan holds a master's degree in Social Work with a special focus on psychology and has 17 years of experience in the field. Lenin Raghuvanshi, on the other hand, has a Bachelor's degree in Ayurveda, Modern Medicine, and Surgery, with 30 years of experience. Together, they pioneered the use of Testimonial Therapy, a brief narrative therapy that provides psycho-social support to survivors.

It is noteworthy that Testimonial Therapy, as a brief narrative approach for psycho-social support to survivors in the Asian context, was developed by Lenin Raghuvanshi in collaboration with Danish psychologist Dr. Inger Agger.

Empowering Futures: The Significance of Girls' Education in Uttar Pradesh

In the heart of Uttar Pradesh, a silent revolution is brewing—one that hinges on the power of education to transform lives. Amidst the bustling streets of Varanasi, the quiet corners of Sonbhadra, and the serene villages of Allahabad, girls are defying odds, breaking barriers, and scripting their destinies through education. This isn't just about academic pursuits; it's about empowerment, dignity, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow.

In a landscape often marred by social disparities and gender biases, investing in girls' education emerges as a beacon of hope and progress. It's a catalyst for change, not just within families but entire communities. When a girl receives an education, the benefits reverberate far beyond the confines of classrooms.

At the core of this movement is the Rajdulari Foundation Scholarship initiative, spearheaded by JanMitra Nyas, a public Charitable Trust in Varanasi, India. With the unwavering support of Ms. Parul Sharma and 200 generous donors from Sweden, these scholarships aren't mere financial aids; they're lifelines, offering girls the chance to dream, aspire, and achieve.

The significance of girls' education transcends academic excellence. It fosters economic independence, enabling girls to break free from the shackles of poverty and dependence. Educated girls are more likely to secure gainful employment, contribute to household incomes, and drive economic growth.

Moreover, education empowers girls with knowledge and awareness, equipping them to make informed decisions about their health, rights, and well-being. It serves as a potent tool in the fight against social evils like child marriage, gender-based violence, and discrimination.

By investing in girls' education, we're not just shaping individual futures; we're sculpting a more equitable and inclusive society. We're bridging gender gaps, nurturing leadership, and laying the groundwork for sustainable development.

As we reflect on the transformative power of girls' education in Uttar Pradesh, let's not forget that the journey is far from over. There are still countless girls waiting for their turn to step into the light of knowledge, to write their own stories of resilience and triumph.

The total amount disbursed reached an impressive grand total of 8,68,628.00 in one year, leaving a lasting impact on the lives of these deserving scholars. Together, let's build a future where every girl can dream, dare, and soar to new heights.

JanMitra Nyas(जनमित्र न्यास)  awarded scholarship with the support from Raj Dulari Foundation to the daughter of domestic violence survivor Abha . After the death of the husband the in-laws are not giving her property rights. Abha is living in rented house and working as maid servant to meet her two end.

#PVCHR #U4humanrights #standwithsurvivors #domesticviolence #scholarship

Link: https://www.scribd.com/document/722636543/Empowering-Futures-The-Significance-of-Girls-Education-in-Uttar-Pradesh

Empowering Futures: The Significance of Girls' Education in Uttar Pradesh by pvchr.india9214 on Scribd