🎨 Art Against Torture: Youth Voice Through Visual Expression

By PVCHR
Date: June 29, 2025

On the occasion of the UN International Day in Support of Victims of Torture (26 June), PVCHR extended its advocacy beyond words—into the realm of art.

Among the powerful visual statements created to honor this day, one stood out with quiet force: a hand-drawn poster by Sanjana Shukla, a Master of Social Work (MSW) 2nd-year student from the Department of Social Work, University of Lucknow. Her poster became a visual embodiment of resistance and hope, amplifying PVCHR’s message through the lens of youth creativity.

“No one ever has the right to hurt you or torture you. Even in detention, your human dignity has to be respected.”

This was not just a poster. It was a statement, a protest, and a promise to stand with survivors.

🖌️ Art as a Tool for Change

Art has long played a vital role in human rights movements. It has the power to communicate where words fall short, to touch hearts, and to awaken conscience. Sanjana’s posters—created as part of PVCHR’s initiative—are reminders that resistance is not always loud. Sometimes it comes in color, contrast, and carefully chosen words.

These visuals were displayed at PVCHR’s office in Varanasi during the June 26 observance. They served not only as educational tools but also as acts of solidarity with victims and condemnation of torture in all forms.

✊ PVCHR and the Fight Against Torture

PVCHR (People’s Vigilance Committee on Human Rights) has been at the forefront of anti-torture advocacy in India, using testimonial campaigns, legal support, community mobilization, and now creative expression to push for systemic change.

Founder Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi believes that “the silence around torture must be broken not only with facts but with feelings—and art helps us do that.”

In a country still awaiting full ratification of the UN Convention Against Torture, initiatives like these are crucial in keeping the conversation alive and visible.

🔗 Learn More

Read PVCHR’s full reflection on the UN Day in Support of Victims of Torture:

➡️ Towards a Torture-Free Society: A Call for Justice, Humanity, and Reform

🙌 A Salute to Young Changemakers

PVCHR proudly recognizes Sanjana Shukla for her meaningful contribution. Her art reflects the spirit of the next generation of human rights defenders: informed, empathetic, and unafraid to speak through their work.

As we move forward, let us continue to blend creativity and conscience, and raise our voices—in every form—for a world without torture.

🕊️ Stand for dignity. Support survivor voices. Let art speak truth to power.

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