“One Woman Changed Thousands of Lives | Shruti Nagvanshi Story”

 

Women’s Leadership and Social Transformation: Reflections from International Women’s Day 2026

Women’s Leadership and Social Transformation: Reflections from International Women’s Day 2026

Human rights defender Lenin Raghuvanshi has published a reflective article highlighting the transformative role of women’s leadership in building a more just and humane society. The piece draws from experiences during International Women’s Day 2026 programmes in Varanasi, including a dialogue organized by Amar Ujala, one of India’s leading Hindi newspapers, under its “My City संवाद” initiative.

The article features the work and leadership of social activist Shruti Nagvanshi, who participated in the Amar Ujala discussion alongside women leaders from education, administration, law enforcement, and social sectors. Their conversation on gender equality and empowerment was also featured in Amar Ujala’s Varanasi edition (8 March 2026).

Raghuvanshi also reflects on Shruti Nagvanshi’s engagements during Women’s Day events, including her address as chief guest at ESIC Medical College & Hospital, Varanasi, and her recognition with the INSPIRE Women Award 2026 at the DALIMSS Sunbeam Group of Schools. The article acknowledges the educational vision of Baba Madhok and Puja Madhok, whose institutions encourage young students to connect education with social responsibility and equality.

Through personal reflection, Raghuvanshi emphasizes that women’s empowerment is not merely a symbolic agenda but a transformative force that strengthens democracy, justice, and humanity.

🔗 Read the full article:

https://medium.com/@lenin_75290/from-privilege-to-humanity-why-womens-leadership-is-transforming-our-society-4d03ecf62240

Prompt Action by NCPCR in Jaunpur Case Reinforces India’s Commitment to Child Rights

The People’s Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR) appreciates the prompt intervention of the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) in response to a serious complaint concerning the alleged sexual harassment of a Class 4 girl student by the acting headmaster of a primary school in Barsathi, Jaunpur district of Uttar Pradesh.

Acting on Complaint No. EB/EDU/2026/93538, the NCPCR took cognizance of the matter and issued an urgent notice under Section 13 of the Commission for Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act, 2005 to the District Magistrate of Jaunpur. The Commission has sought a detailed inquiry and directed authorities to submit an action taken report within 20 days. Importantly, the Commission has emphasized that during the investigation the safety and protection of all children in the school must be ensured.

The notice specifically calls for clarification on critical aspects such as:

• Whether the school was implementing a School Safety Policy

• Whether mandatory reporting procedures were followed immediately after the incident

• Details of the child’s guardians and the support provided to them

This intervention reflects the Commission’s commitment to enforcing key child protection laws including the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, the Juvenile Justice Act, and the Right to Education Act.

The case was brought to national attention following a media report published in Amar Ujala (Varanasi edition, 22 February 2026), which highlighted the allegations made by the child and her family. According to the report, the accused teacher allegedly engaged in inappropriate conduct and harassment when the child approached him to request leave.

NCPCR’s prompt action demonstrates the crucial role of independent statutory institutions in protecting children from abuse within educational institutions. Schools are meant to be safe spaces where children can learn, grow, and develop without fear. When those entrusted with their care violate that trust, swift accountability becomes essential.

From a human rights perspective, this intervention aligns closely with India’s obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which India ratified in 1992. The Convention establishes that every child has the right to protection from all forms of violence, abuse, and exploitation.

Several provisions of the UNCRC are directly relevant in this case:

• Article 19 obligates states to protect children from all forms of physical or mental violence, injury, abuse, or exploitation while in the care of parents, guardians, or any other person.

• Article 28 recognizes the right of the child to education in an environment consistent with human dignity.

• Article 34 requires states to protect children from all forms of sexual exploitation and abuse.

• Article 3 emphasizes that the best interests of the child must be a primary consideration in all actions concerning children.

By invoking legal provisions under POCSO, the Juvenile Justice Act, and the Right to Education Act, the NCPCR has reaffirmed the principle that child safety must remain central to the governance of educational institutions.

This case also highlights the importance of mandatory reporting, institutional accountability, and child protection mechanisms within schools. Effective implementation of School Safety Policies, teacher training on child protection, and awareness among students and parents are essential components of preventing such violations.

PVCHR believes that the swift intervention by NCPCR is an important step toward ensuring justice for the child and strengthening public confidence in child protection institutions. However, the ultimate goal must be systemic reform that guarantees safe and child-friendly educational environments across the country.

Protecting children is not merely a legal obligation; it is a moral and constitutional duty. Ensuring accountability in cases of abuse is essential to safeguarding the dignity, safety, and future of every child.

PVCHR will continue to monitor the progress of this case and stands in solidarity with the child and her family in their pursuit of justice.

मिसिल संख्या: UP EBN-93538-2025-26-NCPCR-RTE

 NOTICE u/s 13 of CPCR ACT,2005

(अतिआवश्यक)

सेवा में,      

जिलाधिकारी, जौनपुर

जिलाधिकारी कार्यालय,

जिला जौनपुर, उत्तर प्रदेश,  

ईमेल: dmjau@nic.in

 

महोदय/ महोदया,

          कृपया कार्यवाही के दौरान सभी बच्चों की सुरक्षा एवं संरक्षण पर भी ध्यान अवश्य दिया जाए| आयोग द्वारा उपरोक्त शिकायत पर संज्ञान बाल अधिकार संरक्षण आयोग अधिनियम, 2005 की धारा 13(1)(J), पॉक्सो अधिनियम, 2012 धारा 5(f) / 6, किशोर न्याय अधिनियम, 2015 धारा 75 एवं RTE ACT 2009 धारा 17 के तहत लिया है। तथा निम्न बिंदुओं को भी सम्मिलित करते हुए जानकारी प्रदान कराई जाए:-

·         क्या विद्यालय में 'School Safety Policy' का पालन किया जा रहा था/है

·         क्या विद्यालय प्रशासन ने घटना के तत्काल बाद अनिवार्य रिपोर्टिंग नियमों का पालन किया, यानि विद्यालय ने प्रकरण को दबाने की भी कोशिश की थी, कि त्वरित कार्यवाही कराई गई।

·         अभिभावक की जानकारी नाम, पता, संपर्क (मोबाइल) मध्यम के साथ

 आपसे अनुरोध है कि बच्चों की शिक्षा एवं सुरक्षा को मध्य नजर रखते हुए इस प्रकरण की तत्काल जाँच करवाकर उचित कार्यवाही करने का कष्ट करें तथा कृतकार्यवाही की जाँच आख्या (आवश्यक दस्तावेजों के साथ)  आयोग को 20 दिनों के भीतर भेजने का कष्ट करें।

 

अपने पत्र में इस आयोग की संदर्भित पत्र संख्या एवं तिथि का स्पष्ट रूप से उल्लेख करें |

-------------------

सादर धन्यवाद

राहुल सिंह (शिक्षा प्रभाग)

राष्ट्रीय बाल अधिकार संरक्षण आयोग, भारत सरकार

महिला एवं बाल विकास मंत्रालय

पंचम तल एवं द्वितीय तल, चंद्रलोक भवन, जनपथ, नई दिल्ली 110001

दूरभाष: 011 - 23478288 

शिकायत पोर्टल: https://ncpcr.gov.in/ebaalnidan/main

वेब: https://ncpcr.gov.in/

वेबसाइट: https://ncpcr.gov.in/

फेसबुक: https://www.facebook.com/NCPCR.Official/

NHRC Intervention to Protect the Rights of Migrant Families Working at Brick Kilns in Varanasi

 

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken cognizance of the issue concerning the protection of the rights of migrant women and ensuring maternal and child health services for families working at brick kilns in Varanasi district.

In this context, Dr. Harishchandra Maurya, Deputy Chief Medical Officer (DCMO), Varanasi, held a telephonic discussion with a JMN (Janmitra Nyas) field worker to develop an effective action plan for implementation of the NHRC directives across the district.

During the discussion, it was decided that the initial implementation would begin in Pindra Block as a pilot step, which will later be expanded to other areas of the district.

Coordination Meeting at PHC Pindra

In compliance with the directives, a coordination meeting was organized by a JMN worker with the Medical Officer In-Charge (MOIC), Pindra. During the meeting, several important decisions were taken regarding the implementation of health and rights-based interventions for migrant families working at brick kilns.

Key Action Points

1. Special Action Plan for Brick Kilns

A special action plan has been prepared for the 23 brick kilns located under Pindra Block. To facilitate necessary administrative coordination, the MOIC will formally send letters to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) and the Block Development Officer (BDO) of Pindra requesting their support in implementing the action plan.

2. Discussion on VHSNC Activities

During the meeting held at Primary Health Centre (PHC) Pindra, detailed discussions were conducted on strengthening the activities of the Village Health Sanitation and Nutrition Committees (VHSNCs). These committees will play an important role in reaching migrant families and ensuring access to essential health services.

3. Invitation to Weekly Progress Review (WPR) Meeting

Workers from Janmitra Nyas (JMN) have been specially invited to participate in the upcoming Weekly Progress Review (WPR) meeting scheduled for Monday.

Strategy for Migrant Families

The upcoming review meeting will focus on developing a comprehensive strategy for migrant families working at brick kilns, including:

• Conducting accurate surveys of migrant families living and working at brick kilns

• Preparing micro-plans for vaccination of children and pregnant women

• Ensuring access to essential health and nutrition services for migrant communities

• Strengthening coordination between the health department, local administration, and civil society organizations

This collaborative initiative represents an important step toward ensuring that migrant workers and their families—especially women and children—are not deprived of basic health services and their fundamental rights.

Through coordinated efforts between government officials and civil society organizations like Janmitra Nyas, the district administration aims to ensure that migrant families working at brick kilns receive proper healthcare, nutrition services, and protection of their rights.

For more details, read the full update here:
https://pvchr.blogspot.com/2026/02/nhrc-intervenes-to-protect.html

Official letter issued by the Office of the District Magistrate, Varanasi (06 February 2026) in reference to the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) directing the Chief Medical Officer to investigate complaints regarding migrant women working at brick kilns being denied time to breastfeed their children and lacking access to essential maternal and child health services.

Community Health Initiative in Haridwar, Uttarakhand: Free Medical Camp and Oxygen Support Strengthen Rural Healthcare

 

Access to quality healthcare remains a major challenge for many vulnerable communities in India. To address this gap and strengthen community health services, the People’s Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR) in collaboration with Janmitra Nyas (JMN) has undertaken initiatives aimed at improving access to healthcare and strengthening medical infrastructure in underserved areas.

As part of these efforts, PVCHR is organizing a free multi-specialty medical camp in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, while also supporting rural health facilities with essential life-saving equipment in Varanasi of Utatr Pradesh.

Free Multi-Specialty Medical Camp in Haridwar

A Free Medical Camp will be organized on 15 March 2026 (Sunday) from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Central Library, Hanuman Ghat, near Har Ki Pauri, Haridwar, Uttarakhand.

The camp will provide free medical consultation and health check-ups by experienced doctors in several specialties, including:

• Cardiology (heart diseases)

• Urology

• Pediatrics (child health)

• Dentistry

• Neurological disorders

• General medicine

Several diagnostic tests will be conducted free of cost, including blood sugar testing, blood pressure check-ups, and ECG screenings. Additional tests such as cholesterol tests and EEG may be conducted on medical advice. Patients requiring advanced cardiac examinations will receive special concessions on 2D Echo and TMT tests.

This initiative aims to promote early diagnosis, preventive healthcare awareness, and accessible medical consultation for communities who often lack access to specialist healthcare services.

Strengthening Emergency Healthcare: Oxygen Concentrators for PHC Chiraigaon in Varanasi of Uttar pradesh 

Earlier, on 12 March 2026, Janmitra Nyas (JMN) / PVCHR donated two oxygen concentrators to Primary Health Centre (PHC) Chiraigaon to strengthen community healthcare services.

The objective of this initiative is to ensure that seriously ill patients and those experiencing respiratory distress can receive timely oxygen support, particularly in emergency situations. Rural health centers often face shortages of critical medical equipment, and providing oxygen concentrators helps improve their ability to respond effectively to life-threatening conditions.

This support contributes to building stronger local health systems and improving emergency preparedness in rural healthcare facilities.

Contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

These initiatives contribute directly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being: By providing free health check-ups, consultations, and strengthening healthcare infrastructure.

• SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities: By ensuring vulnerable and economically disadvantaged communities have access to healthcare services.

• SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Through collaboration between PVCHR, Janmitra Nyas, medical professionals, and community institutions.

Advancing the Right to Health

Through community-based health interventions such as free medical camps and strengthening rural medical infrastructure, PVCHR continues to work toward ensuring that healthcare is accessible, equitable, and responsive to the needs of marginalized communities.

Such initiatives demonstrate how local action, community participation, and institutional partnerships can significantly improve healthcare access while advancing global sustainable development goals. 🌍🏥

Photos and news on Health Camp: 

https://vandebharatlivetvnews.com/%e0%a4%ae%e0%a4%be%e0%a4%a8%e0%a4%b5%e0%a4%be%e0%a4%a7%e0%a4%bf%e0%a4%95%e0%a4%be%e0%a4%b0-%e0%a4%9c%e0%a4%a8-%e0%a4%a8%e0%a4%bf%e0%a4%97%e0%a4%b0%e0%a4%be%e0%a4%a8%e0%a5%80-%e0%a4%b8%e0%a4%ae/

Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi Honored with SocioFare Award 2026 for Grassroots Human Rights Work

 Varanasi, India – The People’s Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR) is proud to announce that its founder, Lenin Raghuvanshi, has been selected as a SocioFare Awardee 2026 under the Grassroots Impacts category by The SocioFare, in collaboration with Sabri Helpage.

This recognition honors Dr. Raghuvanshi’s unwavering commitment to human rights, social justice, and dignity for marginalized communities over several decades. Through the work of PVCHR and its associated initiatives, thousands of individuals facing torture, caste discrimination, and social exclusion have received support, rehabilitation, and access to justice.

Commitment to Grassroots Justice

Founded in 1996, PVCHR has grown into one of India’s prominent grassroots human rights organizations. Under the leadership of Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi, the organization has focused on:

• Supporting survivors of torture and violence

• Promoting the rights of Dalits and marginalized communities

• Advocating for human dignity and constitutional values

• Strengthening community-based justice and peacebuilding

• Working with national and international human rights networks to advance accountability and reform

The SocioFare Award recognizes individuals and organizations that create transformative change at the grassroots level, and this honor reflects the collective efforts of PVCHR’s team, volunteers, partners, and community members.

A Collective Recognition

Dr. Raghuvanshi dedicated this recognition to the communities and grassroots activists who continue to struggle for justice and equality.

“This recognition belongs to the communities who courageously raise their voices against injustice. It strengthens our commitment to continue working for human dignity, peace, and social justice,” said Dr. Raghuvanshi.

PVCHR extends its gratitude to The SocioFare and Sabri Helpage for acknowledging grassroots human rights work and for creating a platform that highlights inspiring social change leaders.

About The SocioFare

The SocioFare is a social impact platform based in Kolkata, India, dedicated to recognizing individuals and organizations working to create positive social change. Through the SocioFare Awards, the platform celebrates grassroots changemakers, social workers, educators, health workers, and community leaders who are making meaningful contributions to society.

The initiative was launched to ensure that many unsung heroes working quietly for social transformation receive recognition, visibility, and encouragement. In addition to awards, The SocioFare shares stories of social impact through digital media, interviews, and community engagement initiatives.

About Sabri Helpage

Sabri Helpage is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Kolkata that works on issues such as mental health awareness, elderly care, women and child welfare, and community development. Established with a humanitarian vision, the organization promotes compassion, social inclusion, and equal opportunities for vulnerable communities.

The organization actively collaborates with social leaders, institutions, and grassroots initiatives to promote sustainable development and human dignity. The SocioFare Awards represent one of its key initiatives to highlight impactful social work across India.

Founder – Aarti BR Singh

The founder of both Sabri Helpage and The SocioFare is Aarti BR Singh, a psychoanalyst, social entrepreneur, and philanthropist committed to promoting compassion and social justice. Through her leadership, these platforms aim to bring attention to grassroots initiatives and individuals working tirelessly to improve lives and strengthen communities.

Her work focuses particularly on mental health awareness, humanitarian support, and the recognition of social change leaders who often remain outside the spotlight.

#SocioFareAwards2026 #GrassrootsImpact #HumanRights #SocialJustice #PVCHR #LeninRaghuvanshi #SabriHelpage #SocioFare #HumanDignity #GrassrootsLeadership #CommunityJustice #HumanRightsDefenders

Strengthening International Solidarity for Human Rights: Meeting in Remscheid, Germany (15 March 2019)

 Remscheid, Germany — 15 March 2019: During his visit to Europe, Lenin Raghuvanshi, founder of the People’s Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR), met with Sven Wolf in Remscheid. The meeting was accompanied by Helma Ritscher, who has long been engaged in supporting initiatives related to social justice and human rights.

The meeting provided an opportunity for a meaningful exchange of views on human rights, democracy, and international solidarity. During the discussion, Lenin Raghuvanshi shared insights into the grassroots work of PVCHR in India, particularly its efforts to support survivors of torture, address caste-based discrimination, and empower marginalized communities through human rights education and advocacy.

Sven Wolf expressed his appreciation for the long-standing work of PVCHR and the dedication of human rights defenders working in difficult circumstances. He noted that he has followed and respected the work of Lenin Raghuvanshi for many years and welcomed the opportunity to meet during his European visit. He also expressed his willingness to continue supporting initiatives that promote human rights and democratic values.

Helma Ritscher emphasized the importance of people-to-people engagement and international dialogue in strengthening cooperation across borders. She highlighted that building connections between civil society actors and policymakers helps advance the global struggle for justice, dignity, and equality.

The interaction underscored the importance of global partnerships and solidarity in protecting human rights and promoting democratic values. Exchanges such as these help build bridges between communities and strengthen international networks committed to defending human dignity.

PVCHR believes that dialogue with international partners is essential for addressing contemporary human rights challenges. The organization remains committed to fostering cooperation and strengthening global alliances that support the protection of human rights and social justice.

 Sven Wolf is a German lawyer and politician associated with the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD). Born on 14 May 1976 in Remscheid, he has been actively involved in public service and regional politics for many years. He previously served as a Member of the Landtag (State Parliament) of North Rhine-Westphalia from 2010, focusing on legal affairs, justice policy, and democratic governance. With a background in law and strong engagement with civil society, he has supported initiatives related to human rights, social justice, and international cooperation. He now serves as the Mayor of Remscheid, continuing his commitment to democratic values, community development, and international dialogue.

 Sven Wolf expressed his appreciation for the long-standing human rights work of Lenin Raghuvanshi and the efforts of the People’s Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR) in supporting marginalized communities in India. He noted that he has followed and respected Raghuvanshi’s work for many years and was pleased to welcome him to Remscheid during his European visit. Wolf emphasized the importance of international cooperation and dialogue between civil society and democratic institutions in strengthening human rights protection worldwide, and expressed his willingness to continue supporting initiatives that promote justice, dignity, and equality.