Empowering Dreams: The Inspiring Journey of Kumari Madhu

In the heart of Varanasi, nestled in the village of ShivRampur, lives a young woman whose journey is a powerful testament to determination and community support. Kumari Madhu, now 27 years old, was born to Shobhanath and Meena Devi. Her story unfolds as a remarkable narrative of overcoming obstacles and embracing opportunities, embodying the transformative power of education and collective effort.

Early Education and Community Involvement

Madhu's educational journey began at the local government school in ShivRampur, where she completed her primary education up to class 8. During these formative years, she actively engaged with Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Children's Council, participating in activities inspired by the Jan Mitra Nyas and PVCHR organizations. This early involvement laid the foundation for her future endeavors, instilling in her a sense of purpose and community spirit.

Overcoming Financial Challenges

Madhu continued her studies at Amar Shaheed Inter College, Ayar, a semi-government institution. However, her educational aspirations were threatened by financial constraints, as her father could not afford to support her further studies. It was at this critical juncture that Jan Mitra Nyas, with the assistance of Ms. Parul Sharma and 200 Swedish donors, stepped in to provide the necessary financial support. This invaluable aid enabled Madhu to enroll at Shanti Shiksha Niketan, Ayar, where she pursued her passion for biology.

Academic Excellence and Aspiration

In 2016, Madhu achieved a significant milestone by passing her Intermediate examinations with an impressive 85% mark. She aspired to pursue General Nursing and Midwifery (GNM), but the high fees posed a substantial hurdle. Despite the financial difficulties, her father's unwavering support and encouragement from Dr. Lenin, the Director of Jan Mitra Nyas, and Trustee Mrs. Shruti Nagvanshi, fueled her determination. Madhu persevered and completed her GNM studies at Lakshmi Institute, Kazisarai, Varanasi, in 2019, emerging as the top student in her class.

Gaining International Experience

Madhu's career preparation was further enriched by an internship opportunity through the NOREC-INSEC-PVCHR Youth Exchange initiative. This program allowed her to gain invaluable experience in Nepal and Norway over 11 months. Upon returning, she continued to diligently prepare for her career while remaining actively involved with the organization's programs, which provided continuous inspiration and support.

Becoming a Community Health Officer

In 2022 and 2023, Madhu appeared for the Community Health Officer (CHO) examinations and passed. She was selected for a six-month training program, which included four months at Pt. Deendayal Upadhyay Hospital in Varanasi and two months at CHC, Bisouli Block, Badaun. Following this, she passed the final examination in Lucknow and secured a position as a Community Health Officer in Badaun, where she is currently employed. Madhu and her family express their profound gratitude to Jan Mitra Nyas for enabling a Dalit family's daughter to achieve her dreams and advance in life.

The Vision of Founders Lenin Raghuvanshi and Shruti Nagvanshi

Our founders, Lenin Raghuvanshi and Shruti Nagvanshi, have a single child, Mr. Kabeer Karunik. True to their values, they sent Kabeer to a neighboring school, similar to Lenin’s own educational journey, which began at a primary school and continued at Queens College in Varanasi. Kabeer did not attend elite schools or colleges, nor did he study abroad. However, their organization has facilitated numerous youth exchange programs, allowing many young individuals to gain international exposure. Notably, the founders have not employed any relatives as staff members, demonstrating their commitment to impartiality and community upliftment.

A Call to Action

Kumari Madhu’s story is not just about personal success; it is about the power of community and the impact of dedicated organizations like Jan Mitra Nyas. We invite you to reflect on this inspiring journey and consider how collective efforts can uplift individuals and transform lives.

#Empowerment #DalitPride #CommunityHealth

Human Rights Champions Honored by CNCDH in 2018: Celebrating Courage and Commitment

 

                                 Silver Medal from CNCDH 

                                               Announcement 

In 2018, marking the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the 20th anniversary of the United Nations Declaration on Human Rights Defenders, the French National Consultative Commission on Human Rights (CNCDH) recognized several outstanding individuals and organizations for their unwavering commitment to defending and promoting human rights. The recipients of this prestigious award have distinguished themselves through their bravery and relentless advocacy, often facing significant risks and persecution.

Winners of the 2018 Human Rights Prize

• National Movement of Victims of State Crimes (MOVICE), Colombia: For their tireless efforts in seeking justice for victims of state crimes in Colombia.
• B'Tselem and Al-Haq (joint award), Israel-West Bank: These organizations have been instrumental in documenting and challenging human rights abuses in the occupied territories.
• Let’s Turn the Page, Niger: Recognized for their work in promoting democracy and human rights in Niger.
• Lenin Raghuvanshi, India: An activist for Dalit rights and a founding member of the People’s Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR), Raghuvanshi has created a non-violent social movement to end caste-based discrimination and forced labor.
• Leonid Sudalenko, Belarus: A lawyer dedicated to defending human rights in Belarus.

Special Mentions

• Casa del Migrante, Saltillo, Mexico: For their support of migrants and their rights.
• Bureau for Volunteering for Children and Health (BVES), Democratic Republic of Congo: For their work in child welfare and health.
• Association for Human Rights and the Prison World (ADHUC), Republic of Congo: For advocating for the rights of prisoners.
• Sukhumi Foundation, Georgia: For their efforts in promoting peace and human rights.
• Lenin Raghuvanshi: India

Lenin Raghuvanshi: A Profile in Courage

Lenin Raghuvanshi’s recognition is particularly noteworthy. A dedicated advocate for Dalit rights in India, Raghuvanshi has faced significant threats and legal challenges due to his activism. As a founding member of the PVCHR, he has worked tirelessly to eliminate caste-based discrimination and forced labor, particularly affecting Dalits and Adivasis. His efforts have garnered international recognition, despite the local authorities' attempts to silence him.

Despite the award being announced in 2018, Lenin Raghuvanshi faced significant delays in receiving his recognition, finally obtaining it by courier on March 27, 2024. There was no official award ceremony. Notably, Raghuvanshi is a citizen from Varanasi, the parliamentary constituency of India's Prime Minister. The reasons for the delay remain unclear, but Raghuvanshi speculated that his past criticisms of European support for Hindu nationalist ideologies might have influenced the delay.

Raghuvanshi's dedication to advocating for human rights has remained unwavering. He completed his Ayurvedacharya (Bachelor of Ayurveda, Modern Medicine, and Surgery, BAMS) from Government Ayurvedic Medical College, Gurukul Kangari, Haridwar in Uttarakhand. Born in Kashi, he has been fighting for the spirit of Shraman culture of diversity and inclusiveness. He observed that corruption became institutionalized, with different departments demanding bribes for any registration and re-registration—a stark contrast to his experiences in 1999 when he began his professional career.

Raghuvanshi faced a falsely implicated criminal conspiracy case since 2015 in Delhi, characterized by no evidence and unnecessary delays by the prosecution department. Recently, the Ministry of Law and the Ministry of Home intervened on the petition of Shruti and Shabana. In a heartfelt blog post from July 2023, Raghuvanshi reflected on the emotional journey and the complexities surrounding the delayed recognition. He wrote, "The recognition I earned for my efforts in promoting human rights was not a mere symbol or accolade. It represented the acknowledgment of the struggles and aspirations of the marginalized communities I stand for."

                                                               Diploma 

Challenges and Speculations

Raghuvanshi highlighted the increasing institutional corruption and the challenges faced by human rights defenders in India. He expressed concerns about the country's shift towards corporate fascism, quoting Barbara, "Democracy prefers Markets but Market does not prefer democracy." He noted the high levels of fear, phobia, and impunity that contribute to a culture of silence. Despite these challenges, Raghuvanshi remains committed to advocating for human rights, drawing inspiration from Maa Kali and Mahakal for a better world.

Conclusion

The CNCDH’s recognition of these human rights defenders underscores the importance of their work and the need to support and protect those who fight for justice and equality. As we celebrate these heroes, we are reminded of the ongoing struggles for human rights across the globe and the enduring power of courage and commitment in the face of oppression.

#HumanRightsHeroes #CNCDH2018 #DefendersOfJustice #LeninRaghuvanshi #PVCHR 

Links for kind perusal:  https://medium.com/@shruti_25784/dr-lenin-raghuvanshi-receives-special-mention-in-human-rights-prize-of-the-french-republic-2018-cf6fcf41be8e

https://www.youthkiawaaz.com/2024/05/a-memoir-by-dr-lenin-raghuvanshi/

https://www.cncdh.fr/edition-2018-du-prix-des-droits-de-lhomme

Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi Receives Special Mention in Human Rights Prize of the French Republic 2018

https://medium.com/@shruti_25784/dr-lenin-raghuvanshi-receives-special-mention-in-human-rights-prize-of-the-french-republic-2018-cf6fcf41be8

Celebrating a Champion for Dalit Rights in India

We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi has been awarded a special mention in the Human Rights Prize of the French Republic 2018, under the prestigious banner of “Liberty, Equality, Fraternity.” This recognition by the Commission nationale consultative des droits de l’homme (CNCDH) highlights Lenin’s relentless dedication to advocating for the rights of Dalits and other marginalized communities in India. The Citation describes, “Lenin Raghuvanshi is an activist for the rights of Dalits in India. He is one of the founding members of the People’s Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR), which works for the development of marginalized sections of society. Deeply convinced of the necessity to eliminate all discrimination based on the caste system, he created a new non-violent social movement to end caste-based discrimination and the resulting forced labor, which affects marginalized communities, particularly Dalits and Adivasis. He is regularly threatened with death and prosecuted by local authorities. The jury wished to encourage Lenin Raghuvanshi’s original and non-violent approach to action.”

Lenin Raghuvanshi’s Inspiring Work

Lenin Raghuvanshi is a tireless activist for the rights of Dalits. As a founding member of the People’s Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR), Lenin has been instrumental in advancing the development and protection of marginalized sections of society. His commitment to eliminating caste-based discrimination has led him to create a powerful non-violent social movement aimed at ending the systemic injustice and forced labor affecting Dalits and Adivasis.

The CNCDH, a French governmental organization established in 1947, recognized Lenin’s original and non-violent approach to human rights advocacy. The CNCDH monitors human rights in France, advises the government, and proposes legislation. It includes representatives from various sectors, ensuring a comprehensive approach to human rights issues.

A Journey of Recognition and Challenges:A Long-Awaited Recognition

Lenin received the special mention award’s medal and diploma on May 27, 2024. Upon receiving the honor, he expressed his gratitude: “This recognition honors all human rights defenders working in South Asia. I am deeply grateful to Shirin Shabana Khan for her extraordinary efforts and remarkable work that led to this award. My heartfelt thanks go to my life partner, Shruti Nagvanshi, and my mentor, Dr. Mohanlal Panda. Congratulations to all associates of PVCHR.”

Despite the award being announced in 2018, Lenin faced delays in receiving his recognition. He speculated that his past criticisms of European support for Hindu nationalist ideologies might have influenced the delay. However, his dedication to advocating for human rights remained unwavering.

Looking Forward with Hope and Determination

Lenin’s recent writings reflect his enduring passion and the global impact of his work. He recalls meetings with significant figures like the late French President Jacques Chirac and author Dominique Lapierre, which underscore the international resonance of his mission.

In a poignant blog post from July 2023, Lenin detailed the emotional journey of receiving the CNCDH’s special mention and the complexities surrounding his delayed recognition. Despite the challenges, he remains committed to his cause and hopeful for future recognition and justice.

Continuing the Fight for Justice

Source: https://www.cncdh.fr/actualite/palmares-du-prix-des-droits-de-lhomme-2018

Dr. Lenin Raghuvanshi’s story is a powerful testament to resilience and determination in the face of systemic injustice. His work with PVCHR and his advocacy for Dalit rights embody the spirit of non-violent resistance and the pursuit of equality. The special mention from the CNCDH not only honors his past efforts but also encourages continued action against caste-based discrimination.

Celebrating the Spirit of Kashi: Preserving Diversity and Pluralism in Varanasi

It is an honor to celebrate the diversity and inclusive culture of Kashi. I believe the delay is a conspiracy against the spirit of Kashi. “We are dealing with corporate as well as communal fascism. The communal issue is not only inter-religious but intra-religious too. When communitarianism imagines its identity vis-à-vis the opposition of an ‘Other,’ it immediately becomes communal. Therefore, secularism also entails working on caste, class, and patriarchal divisions within a community.”

Varanasi’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its music, literature, and social fabric. The city has produced Bharat Ratna awardees like Shehnai maestro Ustad Bismillah Khan and sitar virtuoso Pt. Ravi Shankar. It has also been a hub for writers like Munshi Premchand and philosophers like Bhagwan Das, who have contributed significantly to India’s intellectual and cultural discourse.

The need to preserve Varanasi’s pluralistic and inclusive ethos is crucial. The proposal to declare Varanasi a Living Heritage City aims to conserve its ancient charm while promoting sustainable livelihoods for its artisans. It is essential to teach younger generations the values of pluralism and reconciliation to counter sectarianism and foster a harmonious society. As Varanasi continues to be a beacon of India’s civilizational ethos, it reminds us that diversity and pluralism are our greatest strengths. By protecting and promoting these values, we can ensure a future where all communities coexist peacefully and prosper together.

Unveiling the Untold Story: Lenin Raghuvanshi’s Decade of Activism

 As Raghuvanshi’s journey unfolds, it serves as a testament to the enduring struggle for justice and the profound impact of grassroots activism. His unwavering resolve in the face of adversity continues to inspire and galvanize efforts for positive social change.

Link: https://medium.com/@shruti_25784/unveiling-the-untold-story-lenin-raghuvanshis-decade-of-activism-e99f88b304ec

My Journey with the Global March Against Child Labour

My journey with the Global March Against Child Labour has been one of profound learning, impactful advocacy, and unwavering commitment to children’s rights. The experiences and interactions, from Southeast Asia to Europe, have reinforced the importance of a global, collective effort to eradicate child labor. As we continue to strive for these goals, I remain hopeful for a future where every child can enjoy their right to education, freedom, and dignity. Read about our meeting with President of France too.

#GlobalMarch #ChildLabour #HumanRights #SustainableDevelopment #EducationForAll #EndChildLabour #Advocacy #GlobalHealth #Dignity #EliminateExploitation

Link: https://medium.com/@lenin_75290/my-journey-with-the-global-march-against-child-labour-c80987d909b9

Understanding the Role of Cultural Exchange in Peaceful Coexistence of Diverse Communities

PVCHR works in IRCT annual report

 https://www.scribd.com/document/733437019/PVCHR-works-in-IRCT-annual-report

PVCHR works in IRCT annual report by pvchr.india9214 on Scribd