बाल विवाह एक प्रथा नहीं, बल्कि गंभीर परिणाम है, जो कि लड़कियों से उनका बचपन और हौसला छीन लेता है और इसी के खिलाफ आवाज उठाने का सराहनीय कार्य वाराणसी की श्रुति नागवंशी कई सालों से कर रही हैं। उल्लेखनीय है कि कम उम्र से ही श्रुति ने महिलाओं के उत्थान के लिए खुद को समर्पित कर दिया है। ज्ञात हो कि बीते 30 सालों से दलित महिलाओं के साथ मिलकर उन्होंने बाल श्रम और महिलाओं को दिए जाने वाले सभी तरह के उत्पीड़न के खिलाफ आवाज बुलंद की है। श्रुति का कहना है कि महिलाओं से जुड़े उत्पीड़न के मामले छोटे या बड़े नहीं होते हैं, बल्कि पीड़ादायक होता है। आइए जानते हैं विस्तार से।
बनारस निवासी श्रुति नागवंशी ने कई दलित महिलाओं को नई जिंदगी दी है। उन्होंने कई साल पहले बाल श्रम को लेकर एक लड़ाई शुरू की और उसमें सफल भी रही और उसके बाद से ही लगातार उन्होंने बाल श्रम से लेकर बाल विवाह की जड़ को खत्म करने का कार्य किया है। उन्होंने लगभग 15 बाल विवाह को होने से रोका है। कई सारी छोटी लड़कियों के जीवन को वक्त से पहले शादी के अंधेरे से बाहर लाने का कार्य किया है। अपने पति के साथ मिलकर उन्होंने मानवाधिकार जन सतर्कता समिति की शुरुआत की। इसके साथ ही अपने सराहनीय कार्य के लिए उन्हें अंतरराष्ट्रीय स्तर पर मान्यता भी मिल चुकी है। साल 2016 में उन्हें भारत के महिला एवं बाल विकास मंत्रालय द्वारा शीर्ष 100 महिला अचीवर्स में भी शामिल किया गया। उन्हें लेनिन रघुवंशी के साथ मिलकर नोबेल शांति पुरस्कार के लिए भी नामांकित किया जा चुका है। हालांकि बीते दो दशक से अपने इस कार्य को शुरू करने की प्रेरणा उन्हें बचपन में ही मिल चुकी है। वह कई सामाजिक कार्यों का हिस्सा बचपन से ही रही हैं। अपने करियर और जीवन में कई तरह की चुनौतियों के बाद भी उन्होंने लोगों के उत्थान के लिए किए गए कार्यों को हमेशा जारी रखा और अपना जीवन पूर्ण तरह से समर्पित कर दिया है। समाज के लिए अपनी इस सेवा पर श्रुति का कहना है कि उन्होंने तकरीबन 30 साल पहले इस काम को शुरू किया था और फिर मानवाधिकार जन निगरानी समिति के द्वारा बाल श्रम की लड़ाई शुरू की। उन्होंने कहा कि उनके अब तक के सफर में उन महिलाओं के सामने अपने अधिकारों के लिए बड़ा संकट था, जो खासतौर पर बस्तियों में रहती थीं। खासतौर पर इन महिलाओं को सरकारी योजनाओं का लाभ दिलाना और अस्पताल जैसी सुविधा के लिए वह लगातार प्रयास कर रही हैं और सफल भी रही हैं।
At the A-Marka Devchandrapur brick kiln, the harsh winter intensified these realities. Workers who spend long hours engaged in physically demanding labor found themselves confronting not only financial hardship but also the threat of extreme cold. For them, something as simple as a blanket is not a comfort — it is protection, dignity, and sometimes even survival.
Responding to this urgent need, Janmitra Nyas and the People’s Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR) organized a winter relief effort supported by Kajeesan Jeevendra, Denmark. Through his generous contribution, 66 shawls (blankets) were distributed among male and female workers at the kiln, helping shield them from the cold and offering a measure of security during the most unforgiving weeks of the season.
The initiative also brought moments of joy to the children. Puffed rice (lai) and jaggery (gur) were shared with them — small but meaningful gestures that brightened young faces and reminded them that they are seen and valued. Humanitarian support is not only about meeting physical needs; it is also about nurturing hope.
Brick kiln workers often remain invisible in mainstream development conversations. Many are seasonal migrants with limited access to healthcare, education, and government welfare schemes. Their labor contributes significantly to economic growth and infrastructure development, yet their living conditions frequently remain precarious. Winter exposes these inequalities with painful clarity.
For Musahar families, vulnerability is further compounded by a long history of landlessness and discrimination. Supporting them is therefore not merely an act of charity — it is a step toward restoring justice and affirming their inherent dignity. Inclusive development demands that progress reach those who have long stood at the margins of society.
This effort also aligns with the global vision of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). Protecting vulnerable communities from seasonal distress is essential to building resilient societies where no one is left behind. Human dignity must not depend on the weather.
Equally inspiring is the example set by Kajeesan Jeevendra. His support demonstrates how individual compassion can transcend borders and create tangible impact. At a time when the world faces complex humanitarian challenges, such acts of solidarity remind us that meaningful change often begins with personal commitment. Global citizenship is ultimately defined not by geography but by empathy and action.
Civil society organizations like Janmitra Nyas and PVCHR play a vital role in connecting generosity with need. By reaching communities that are frequently overlooked, they ensure that assistance arrives where it matters most. Yet while winter relief provides immediate comfort, it also highlights the need for long-term structural change — stronger labor protections, improved access to social security, quality education for workers’ children, and sustainable pathways out of poverty.
Offering warmth in the cold may seem like a modest intervention, but its message is profound: every life deserves care, protection, and respect. When we stand with the most vulnerable, we strengthen the moral fabric of our societies.
As this initiative reminds us, compassion is most meaningful when it is translated into action. Sometimes, the simplest gesture — a blanket shared on a freezing night — can reaffirm our shared humanity and move us closer to a more just and equitable world.
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In Varanasi, this spirit of nation-building came alive when Jan Mitra Nyas, in collaboration with the People’s Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR) and Asha Trust, organized a free educational materials distribution program at the Raja Suheldev Jan Mitra Learning Center School in Baghwanala. Supported by Sweden-based Indian philanthropist Ms. Parul Sharma through the Rajdulari Foundation — and strengthened by the generosity of nearly 200 Swedesh donors — the initiative ensured that children from economically marginalized backgrounds received essential school supplies.
A total of 35 children were provided with school bags, notebooks, pencils, erasers, sharpeners, and other learning materials. While the items themselves were modest, their impact was profound. The joy, excitement, and renewed confidence visible on the children’s faces served as a powerful reminder that access to basic educational resources can transform aspiration into possibility.
This initiative aligns closely with the principles enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which affirms every child’s inherent right to education and equal opportunity. Education is not charity — it is a fundamental human right. By removing financial barriers that often prevent children from attending school or continuing their studies, such efforts directly contribute to building a rights-based society.
The significance of this work extends beyond individual beneficiaries. It speaks directly to the broader agenda of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 1 (No Poverty), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). Nations progress when children learn, when inequalities narrow, and when opportunities are distributed more fairly. Education, therefore, is not merely a social service; it is a cornerstone of sustainable national development.
Speaking at the event, Managing Trustee Mrs. Shruti Nagvanshi emphasized that education remains the most effective pathway toward positive societal change. When children are supported at an early stage, they gain the confidence and skills necessary to shape their futures responsibly. Ensuring that no child is excluded from education due to lack of resources is not just an institutional mission — it is a shared moral responsibility.
The Republic Day celebration was further enriched by the children themselves, who performed patriotic songs and a street play that moved the audience deeply. Their performances reflected not only talent but also a growing sense of identity, participation, and belonging — qualities essential for nurturing active and responsible citizens.
Adding to the educational dimension of the program, social worker Anand Nishad engaged the children in a conversation about the importance of Republic Day, the Indian Constitution, and the rights and duties of citizens. Simplifying complex democratic ideas for young minds helps cultivate constitutional literacy — a vital ingredient in strengthening democratic culture.
Equally inspiring was the participation of rural women associated with the Shiksha Plus adult literacy initiative of Jan Mitra Nyas. For the first time, these women organized a morning “Prabhat Pheri” (community march) in their village to mark Republic Day. With slogans such as “Let India study, let India grow” and “Education at every age is true freedom,” they demonstrated how literacy can ignite confidence and civic engagement even later in life. Their enthusiasm symbolized a deeper truth: education liberates not only individuals but entire communities.
The involvement of local parents and community members further reinforced the collective nature of this effort. Nation-building is not the responsibility of governments alone — it is a shared endeavor that requires collaboration between civil society, donors, educators, and communities.
In this context, heartfelt gratitude is due to Ms. Parul Sharma and the nearly 200 Swedesh donors whose compassion and commitment made this initiative possible. Their support reflects a powerful form of global citizenship — one that transcends geography to uphold the universal rights of children. Acts of solidarity like these remind us that meaningful change often begins with simple gestures of care and responsibility.
As India continues its journey toward becoming a more equitable and developed society, the message from this Republic Day initiative is clear: investing in children is investing in the nation’s future. When a child receives a school bag, it carries more than books — it carries dreams, dignity, and the promise of participation in the country’s progress.
If we truly believe in the ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity that our Constitution upholds, we must ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn and thrive. Education is where national transformation begins, and every effort to expand its reach strengthens the democratic foundation of our society.
Republic Day reminds us that freedom is not complete until it is shared equally. By protecting children’s rights, advancing education, and fostering inclusive opportunities, we move closer to the India envisioned by our Constitution — an India where every child can learn, grow, and contribute to the nation’s destiny.
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The recent action by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in calling for an Action Taken Report (ATR) regarding the alleged custodial death of 38-year-old Anil Rawat represents a significant and reassuring step toward safeguarding constitutional rights in India. At a time when concerns about custodial violence continue to challenge the justice system, the Commission’s proactive approach reinforces the importance of transparency, due process, and institutional accountability.
The NHRC’s decision to formally examine the complaint demonstrates the vitality of India’s human rights framework. By directing District Magistrates and Superintendents of Police from both Uttar Pradesh and Bihar to submit detailed reports within eight weeks, the Commission has sent a clear message: allegations involving the deprivation of life, especially in state custody, demand immediate scrutiny.
What stands out in this directive is the depth of documentation sought by the Commission. From arrest memos and medical legal certificates to post-mortem reports, forensic findings, magisterial inquiry reports, and even video evidence of the post-mortem examination—the NHRC has insisted on a comprehensive evidentiary trail. Such rigor minimizes the possibility of procedural gaps and ensures that the truth is established through verifiable records rather than conjecture.
Custodial deaths strike at the very heart of democratic governance because the state bears a heightened duty of care toward individuals in its custody. The NHRC’s intervention underscores the principle that authority must always be accompanied by responsibility.
By also seeking clarification on whether this case overlaps with an already pending matter, the Commission has demonstrated procedural prudence. This prevents duplication, ensures administrative clarity, and accelerates justice. Moreover, directing State Human Rights Commissions to report whether they have taken cognizance reflects a coordinated institutional approach—essential for addressing serious human rights concerns efficiently.
Equally noteworthy is the fact that the complaint originated from a concerned citizen. This highlights the accessibility of the NHRC as a forum where individuals and civil society actors can raise their voices against potential injustices. When citizens trust that their complaints will be heard and acted upon, it strengthens democratic participation and reinforces the rule of law.
The Commission’s structured process—requiring submissions through the HRCNet portal and discouraging informal communication—also signals a shift toward professionalized governance. Digitized accountability mechanisms not only streamline proceedings but also create a documented chain of responsibility.
Every credible inquiry into alleged custodial misconduct serves a broader purpose: deterrence. When authorities know that lapses will invite independent examination, it encourages adherence to arrest protocols, medical safeguards, and humane treatment of detainees. Over time, such oversight contributes to institutional reform and improved policing standards.
The NHRC’s insistence on details such as whether the family was informed of the arrest aligns with established human rights jurisprudence and Supreme Court guidelines. These procedural safeguards are not mere formalities—they are protections designed to prevent abuse.
The Commission deserves appreciation for treating the matter with the seriousness it warrants. Rather than allowing the complaint to remain a statistic, the NHRC has activated a process capable of uncovering facts, fixing responsibility, and recommending corrective measures where necessary.
In a democracy as vast and complex as India, the consistent functioning of oversight bodies is essential. The NHRC’s action reassures citizens that constitutional promises are not symbolic—they are enforceable.
While calling for reports is the first step, the true measure of justice will lie in the thoroughness of the investigation and the transparency of its conclusions. Swift compliance by the concerned authorities will be crucial. Equally important will be the Commission’s follow-through to ensure that accountability, if established, translates into meaningful action.
Cases like these remind us that human rights protection is not a one-time effort but a continuous commitment requiring vigilance from institutions, civil society, and citizens alike.
 |
| NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION |
| MANAV ADHIKAR BHAWAN BLOCK-C, GPO COMPLEX, INA, NEW DELHI- 110023 |
| Fax No.: 011-24651332 Website: www.nhrc.nic.in |
| (Law Division) |
| Case No.- 13449/24/32/2025-AD |
| Date : 03/02/2026 |
| To, |
| THE DISTRICT MAGISTRATE GHAZIPUR UTTAR PRADESH Email- dmgaz@nic.in THE DISTRICT MAGISTRATE GOPALGANJ BIHAR Email- dm-gopalganj.bih@nic.in THE SUPERINTENDENT OF POLICE SP Office, Kacehri Road, Kacheri GHAZIPUR UTTAR PRADESH Email- spgzr-up@nic.in THE SUPERINTENDENT OF POLICE Office of the Superintendent of Police, Collectorate Campus, GOPALGANJ BIHAR Email- sp-gopalganj-bih@nic.in THE SECRETARY - STATE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION Uttar Pradesh State Human Rights Commission Manav Adhikar Bhawan,TC-34, V-1, Vibhuti Khand, Gomti Nagar,Lucknow-226010 LUCKNOW UTTAR PRADESH 226010 Email- uphrclko@yahoo.co.in THE SECRETARY - STATE HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION BIHAR HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION, 09, BAILEY ROAD PATNA BIHAR BIHAR 800015 Email- sec-bhrc@nic.in |
| Sub : Complaint/ Intimation from |
LENIN RAGHUVANSHI |
| Subject: Action Taken Report Called for(ATR) -13449/24/32/2025-AD. |
| Sir/ Madam, |
| The complaint/ intimation dated 23/06/2025, was placed before the Commission on 03/02/2026. Upon perusing the same, the Commission directed as follows: |
| The Commission has received a complaint from Sh. Lenin Raghuvanshi, SA 4/2a Daulatpur, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh regarding custodial death of Anil Rawat r/o Village Dhadhani Bhanmal Rai, PS Suhwal, District Ghazipur, Uttar Pradesh, aged about 38 years, on (date of death not mentioned), due to alleged torture by police. In NHRC's cases, one police custody case in respect of death of one Anil Ram R/o P.S. Subawal, District Ghazipur, U.P. is pending as case no. 2555/4/12/2025-PCD, though it is not clear if the present matter is related to the same person or not.
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| 2. Accordingly, I am forwarding herewith a copy of the complaint/ intimation as an attachment for taking appropriate action in the matter as per the directions of the Commission. It is requested that an Action Taken Report be sent to the Commission within 8 weeks from the date of receipt of this letter. |
| 3. Any communication by public authorities in this matter may please be sent to the Commission through the HRCNet Portal (https://hrcnet.nic.in) by using id and password already provided to the public authorities (click Authority Login). Any Audio/ Video CDs/ pen drives etc. may be sent through Speed Post/ per bearer. The reports/ responses sent through email may not be entertained. |
Your’s faithfully |
| CC to |
Complainant Details Sparsh Agarwal |
