Advocacy and Legal Victories: Empowering Survivors of Torture

 

The project actively intervened in 172 cases involving survivors of torture, comprising 115 males and 57 females.

Legal Proceedings: Notably, 12 cases were brought before the district court.

Compensation Disbursement: A substantial sum of 208,564 USD was disbursed in compensation, addressing the legal ramifications of 11 cases related to police torture. This financial restitution aims to rectify the injustices faced by survivors, acknowledging the severity of their ordeals and providing a measure of redress.

Detailed Case Interventions: Of the 195 interventions, 36 pertained to custodial deaths, 125 to cases of police torture, 2 to extra-judicial killings, 1 to death in police firing, and 8 to cases of custodial torture. In these instances, 115 beneficiaries were male, and 57 were female.

Legal Victory - Acquittal of Paru Sonkar: A significant legal triumph was achieved with the acquittal of Paru Sonkar by the district court. Wrongfully implicated in a case involving a killing, Paru Sonkar's exoneration not only underscores the project's unwavering commitment to justice but also stands as a testament to the effectiveness of legal interventions in challenging and rectifying wrongful accusations.

Breaking Silence: Empowering Survivors Through Testimonial Therapy

 The project offered crucial support to 141 survivors, comprising 75 males and 66 females, encompassing 123 primary victims and 18 secondary victims. Testimonial therapy served as a central approach, emphasizing empathy and open communication to establish a secure space for survivors to express their traumatic experiences. Both individual and group therapy sessions were conducted, with a specific focus on aiding those affected by police torture and administrative repression.

 Prior to commencing testimonial therapy, a pre-M&E (Monitoring and Evaluation) questionnaire was administered to conduct a comprehensive assessment. This aimed to map the WHO I 5, pain, and anger analogues, providing insights into the baseline psychological state of the survivors. The gathered information guided the customization of therapy sessions to meet the unique needs of participants, who engaged in four sessions designed to foster empathy and create a secure environment for expression.

 Testimonial therapy emerged as a vital tool in breaking the culture of silence and alleviating fear among survivors. The project achieved significant milestones by not only providing psycho-social support to individual survivors but also extending its positive impact to their families. The transformative process initiated by testimonial therapy played a pivotal role in breaking down barriers, encouraging open communication, and positively influencing the broader support network.

 Survivors utilized testimonial therapy sessions as a platform to share their stories, resulting in a cathartic experience. Addressing the psychological impact of trauma led to a reported decrease in fear and phobia associated with their experiences. The therapy facilitated a sense of empowerment, enabling survivors to overcome the pervasive silence and stigma surrounding their traumatic past.

 In addition to individual therapy sessions, testimonial therapy was extended to groups affected by police torture and administrative repression. This community outreach proved essential in addressing collective trauma and fostering solidarity among survivors. The positive impact of testimonial therapy transcended individual cases, encouraging open dialogue and mutual support within the broader community.

 The project successfully demonstrated the effectiveness of testimonial therapy in providing psycho-social support to survivors of trauma. Through breaking the culture of silence and fear, testimonial therapy empowered survivors to share their stories and facilitated a transformative process that extended beyond individual cases. The project made significant contributions to creating an environment where survivors feel supported and empowered, laying the foundation for continued healing and resilience in the face of traumatic experiences.

 Notably, the survivors included 135 cases of police torture, 3 cases of custodial death, 2 cases of extra-judicial killing, and 1 case of custodial torture. These survivors were from the states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Jharkhand in India. https://testimony-india.blogspot.com/2024/01/breaking-silence-fostering-empowerment.html

Empowering Stories: Triumphs Over Injustice and Acts of Compassion

 Successful Story 1: A Tale of Triumph Over Injustice

 In June 2022, a minor dispute in the village of Palia, Azamgarh district, took a harrowing turn, orchestrated by two police personnel. Swift and brutal, the onslaught unfolded as police, accompanied by officials from five stations, descended on the Pasi Dalit colony with JCBs. Electricity was cut, homes were demolished, and women were subjected to misbehavior during a relentless two-day police rampage.

 Men evacuated the area out of fear, leaving women without shelter for 21 days. With the intervention of the local MLA, food supplies were arranged. The police unjustly filed serious charges against 250 individuals, prompting a complaint to the National Human Rights Commission (Case no 20045/24/6/2021), New Delhi.

 In 2023, our team provided psycho-social support through testimonial therapy. Discussions on reconciliation ensued, proposing compensation of Rs 1.5 lakh from each involved police personnel. An impressive amount of Rs 41 lakh was disbursed to the victims' families, marking an unexpected turn towards reconciliation and standing as a testament to resilience against injustice.

 

Successful Story 2Justice Served and Healing for Mrs. Reena

 

In 2021, tragedy struck Reena's family with the custodial death of her husband, Krishan Murari. A formal complaint to the Honorable National Human Rights Commission (Case no. 12227/24/69/2021-ad) prompted an investigation. Revelations unveiled Krishan Murari's suicide in District Jail, Sonbhadra, leading to the suspension of Jail Warder Shrikant Yadav.

The Commission recommended compensation of Rs. Five Lakhs (five hundred Thousand Indian Rupees) for Krishan Murari's family, and a notice under Section 18(a) of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, was dispatched to the Uttar Pradesh government. Justice was set in motion, ensuring accountability and compensation.

 

Reena's journey to healing began in 2022 when our support team provided psycho-social assistance through testimonial therapy. In 2023, the Commission's decision for compensation marked a significant stride towards justice, bringing closure to Krishan Murari's family.

 

Empowering Reena's future was a collaborative effort in 2023. With IRCT's support, a holistic approach provided a goat and vegetable seeds for kitchen gardening, aiding Reena in rebuilding her life and envisioning a brighter future. Her story is brought to light, and Lenin Raghuvanshi, a Uttar Pradesh-based social activist, observes that the BJP has been employing a feudal tactic to manage crime by instilling a climate of fear among the populace: “This contradicts the principles of modern criminal justice system.”

In 2010, the United Progressive Alliance government introduced anti-torture legislation to the lower house of India’s Parliament. However, it was ultimately shelved. [Source: https://pvchr.blogspot.com/2023/06/women-struggle-while-men-die-in-custody_19.html]

 

 

Successful Story 3: In Pursuit of Justice: The Acquittal of Paru Sonkar

 

A notable legal triumph was achieved with the district court's acquittal of Paru Sonkar. Wrongfully implicated in a homicide case, Paru Sonkar's exoneration not only highlights the project's commitment to justice but also serves as a testament to the effectiveness of legal interventions in challenging and rectifying wrongful accusations. This collective effort involved Dr. Lenin's advocacy, media support, and the impactful letter penned by senior lawyer Mr. Tanweer Ahmed Siddiqui, stirring the conscience of those in power.

[Related Links: https://pvchr.blogspot.com/2023/09/triumph-of-truth-paru-sonkars-acquittal.html and https://pvchr.blogspot.com/2023/09/reshams-journey-tale-of-hope-redemption.html]

 

Successful stories 4: Impactful Moments of Empowerment and Compassion

 

The project received substantial media support, with both print and electronic outlets covering the folk school and honor ceremonies. Mr. Ajay Prakash, the editor of JanJawar, undertook personal visits to survivors' homes, meticulously documenting the patterns of torture, the challenges faced, and the services provided. https://pvchr.blogspot.com/2023/09/mr-ajay-prakashs-visit-to-pvchr-irct.html

https://pvchr.blogspot.com/2023/09/voices-of-resilience-triumph-justice.html

 

A significant event unfolded in Varanasi on June 28, 2023, where Shri Ashutosh Sinha, an advocate, Member of the Legislative Council, and Chairman of the Sadbhav Committee, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest for the program "Rehabilitation through Reintegration." Organized jointly by Jan Mitra Nyas (JMN) and the People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR), with support from the International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims (IRCT), the program was further honored by the United Nations Trust Fund for Torture Victims (UN Trust Fund for Torture Victim). Shri Ashutosh Sinha shared insights on livelihood options and pledged support to survivors in his elected area. Witnessing the recognition and respect bestowed upon survivors was a privilege, showcasing their exceptional determination and resilience in the pursuit of justice. They stand as exemplary role models, demonstrating the efficacy of constitutional means to attain justice. For further details, please visit http://pvchr.blogspot.com/2023/07/varanasi-on-un-day-in-support-of.html

 

On August 20, 2023, an act of compassion illuminated the horizon, thanks to the generous support of Ms. Helma Ritshcer and the Indo-German Society in Remschied, Germany. A beautiful gift unfolded as three thousand fruit-bearing plants were donated, symbolizing not only livelihood but also nourishment – a poignant reminder that humanity persists amidst adversity. This tree planting initiative, aiming at environmental preservation and livelihood enhancement, took root in Ghasiya Basti, Ramp Gram. The ambitious project included the planting of guava, lemon, saagwan (teak), and bamboo saplings. Shri Pakauri Lal Kol, the esteemed Member of Parliament for the district, inaugurated the initiative by planting saagwan saplings on August 20, 2023, in Robertsganj, Raup Village. More details can be found at http://pvchr.blogspot.com/2023/08/empowering-communities-through.html

 

A momentous occasion unfolded on January 20, 2023, during the inauguration of Krishna Gold Jewellery and Diamond Shop in Ayodhya. Seizing the opportunity to contribute significantly to empowerment, we distributed 10 sewing machines. The list of beneficiaries has been meticulously compiled and submitted for your reference. Continuing our commitment, an additional 3 sewing machines were distributed during the inaugural session on the same day. Recognizing the importance of outreach and collaboration, 14 machines were handed over to Mr. Manoj Kumar Singh of Ambedkarnagar for distribution. On January 30, 2023, we reinforced our dedication to empowerment by distributing the remaining 14 machines, specifically allocated to women who have faced organized violence and torture. This initiative aims to provide them with a means of self-sufficiency and resilience.

 

Unveiling Injustice: The Plight of Tribal Youths and Police Brutality

 

Tribal youths ensnared in false cases have been embroiled in legal battles for years, resulting in profound devastation for their families. Particularly concerning is the pattern of police brutality inflicted upon the SC/ST tribal community, where innocent individuals are coerced from police stations to fulfill jail cleaning duties. Numerous cases have surfaced where individuals have languished behind bars for years without their families' knowledge. Moreover, there is a disturbing trend of custodial murders being disguised as suicides, while visible signs of bodily harm point to instances of police brutality. These revelations, shedding light on police misconduct, have been bravely brought to attention by women and child rights activist Shruti Nagvanshi. Janjwar.com, a news site, recently published her insightful interview, which is based on lessons learned from our Project. Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zjj3atUAz2M

https://pvchr.blogspot.com/2024/02/unveiling-injustice-plight-of-tribal.html

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The project garnered extensive media support, with print and electronic outlets covering the folk school and honor ceremonies. Mr. Ajay Prakash, the editor of JanJawar, personally visited the survivors' homes, documenting the patterns of torture, the challenges faced, and the services provided.

 

A significant event unfolded in Varanasi on June 28, 2023, where Shri Ashutosh Sinha, an advocate, Member of the Legislative Council, and Chairman of the Sadbhav Committee, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest for the program "Rehabilitation through Reintegration." Organized jointly by Jan Mitra Nyas (JMN) and the People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR), with support from the International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims (IRCT), the program was further honored by the United Nations Trust Fund for Torture Victims (UN Trust Fund for Torture Victim). Shri Ashutosh Sinha shared insights on livelihood options and pledged support to survivors in his elected area. Witnessing the recognition and respect bestowed upon survivors was a privilege, showcasing their exceptional determination and resilience in the pursuit of justice. They stand as exemplary role models, demonstrating the efficacy of constitutional means to attain justice. For further details, please visit http://pvchr.blogspot.com/2023/07/varanasi-on-un-day-in-support-of.html

 

On August 20, 2023, an act of compassion illuminated the horizon, thanks to the generous support of Ms. Helma Ritshcer and the Indo-German Society in Remschied, Germany. A beautiful gift unfolded as three thousand fruit-bearing plants were donated, symbolizing not only livelihood but also nourishment – a poignant reminder that humanity persists amidst adversity. This tree planting initiative, aiming at environmental preservation and livelihood enhancement, took root in Ghasiya Basti, Ramp Gram. The ambitious project included the planting of guava, lemon, saagwan (teak), and bamboo saplings. Shri Pakauri Lal Kol, the esteemed Member of Parliament for the district, inaugurated the initiative by planting saagwan saplings on August 20, 2023, in Robertsganj, Raup Village. More details can be found at http://pvchr.blogspot.com/2023/08/empowering-communities-through.html

 

 

A momentous occasion unfolded on January 20, 2023, during the inauguration of Krishna Gold Jewellery and Diamond Shop in Ayodhya. Seizing the opportunity to contribute significantly to empowerment, we distributed 10 sewing machines. The list of beneficiaries has been meticulously compiled and submitted for your reference. Continuing our commitment, an additional 3 sewing machines were distributed during the inaugural session on the same day. Recognizing the importance of outreach and collaboration, 14 machines were handed over to Mr. Manoj Kumar Singh of Ambedkarnagar for distribution. On January 30, 2023, we reinforced our dedication to empowerment by distributing the remaining 14 machines, specifically allocated to women who have faced organized violence and torture. This initiative aims to provide them with a means of self-sufficiency and resilience.

 

 

Comprehensive Healing and Empowerment Initiative for Survivors of Torture

 

The project has showcased a comprehensive impact, integrating medical, psychological, legal, and community-based interventions to cater to the diverse needs of torture survivors. The quantitative accomplishments are complemented by qualitative insights, underlining the holistic methodology adopted to foster healing, justice, and empowerment.

Medical Intervention:

Quantitative Information: Health camps held in Bazardiha provided medical treatment to 130 survivors, including 73 women and 57 men, who had endured police brutality and faced false charges during the Anti-CAA movement.

Qualitative Information: The qualitative impact extended beyond mere medical assistance, highlighting a dedication to the ongoing healing and welfare of survivors. Follow-up mechanisms were implemented to provide continuous support and monitor the progress of those seeking aid. In essence, the health camps in Bazardiha emerged as symbols of hope, resilience, and solidarity, marking a qualitative transformation in the lives of survivors as they navigated the aftermath of police brutality and unjust accusations during the challenging Anti-CAA movement. Beyond statistical figures, the qualitative impact of these health camps can be delineated through the following dimensions:

• Empathetic Support: Healthcare professionals and support staff exhibited a compassionate and empathetic demeanor, acknowledging the emotional distress and trauma experienced by survivors. The environment fostered trust and facilitated open communication.
• Community Bonding: The health camps transcended their role as mere medical facilities, evolving into spaces where survivors could forge connections, exchange experiences, and cultivate a supportive community. This communal bonding played a pivotal role in the healing journey.
• Reclaiming Dignity: Beyond addressing physical injuries, the health camps aimed to restore a sense of dignity and agency to survivors who had endured not only bodily harm but also injustice and baseless accusations. The approach focused on empowering individuals to reclaim control over their lives.
• Awareness and Advocacy: The health camps served as platforms for raising awareness about the broader socio-political issues surrounding survivors' ordeals. Advocacy initiatives were integrated to address systemic challenges, ensuring that survivors' voices were not only heard but also translated into tangible action. Link for details: https://pvchr.blogspot.com/2023/10/empowering-healthcare-for-victims-of.html

Testimonial Therapy as brief narrative therapy for Psycho-Social Rehabilitation:

Quantitative Information:

A total of 141 survivors, consisting of 75 males and 66 females, including 123 primary victims and 18 secondary victims, received support through testimonial therapy, a brief narrative therapy.

Qualitative Information:

Testimonial therapy sessions were conducted with a strong emphasis on empathy and open communication, providing a secure environment for survivors to express their traumatic experiences. Prior to commencing the process, a pre-M&E (Monitoring and Evaluation) questionnaire was administered to assess the WHO I 5, pain, and anger analogues. Throughout the project duration, survivors underwent four sessions as part of the testimonial therapy program. Furthermore, testimonial therapy was extended to groups impacted by police torture and administrative repression.

Impact on Breaking Silence and Eliminating Fear:

The implementation of testimonial therapy has proven pivotal in shattering the culture of silence and dispelling fear among survivors. By offering psycho-social support through testimonial therapy, the project not only reaches individual survivors but also extends positive effects to their families. This transformative journey contributes to dismantling barriers, fostering open dialogue, and positively influencing the broader support network. Consequently, the project has effectively contributed to cultivating an environment where survivors feel empowered to share their narratives and conquer the pervasive fear and apprehension associated with their traumatic experiences.

Meta-Legal and Legal Intervention:

Meta-legal intervention encompasses engagements with various administrative bodies and human rights institutions, such as police departments, district administrations, state governments, national governments, and entities like the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). These interventions aim to address immediate relief and compensation to victims with systemic issues, policy reforms, and institutional changes to prevent torture and protect human rights.

Legal intervention, on the other hand, involves providing support and representation to survivors in legal proceedings, particularly in courts of law. This includes filing cases, advocating for survivors' rights, and ensuring access to justice. Legal interventions seek to hold perpetrators accountable, secure compensation for survivors, and obtain legal remedies for the violations they have endured.

Quantitative Information:

• Meta-Legal: The project intervened in 172 cases of torture survivors, involving 115 males and 57 females.
• Legal: 12 cases were presented in district courts.

Qualitative Information:

• Compensation Disbursement: A significant sum of 208,564 USD was disbursed in compensation, addressing the legal repercussions of 11 cases of police torture. This financial restitution aimed to rectify the injustices faced by survivors, acknowledging the severity of their experiences and providing a measure of redress. Link: https://pvchr.blogspot.com/2023/12/restitution-for-rights-human-rights.html
• Acquittal of Paru Sonkar: A notable legal triumph was attained with the acquittal of Paru Sonkar by the district court. Wrongfully implicated in a homicide case, Paru Sonkar's exoneration not only underscores the project's dedication to justice but also stands as a testament to the efficacy of legal interventions in challenging and rectifying wrongful accusations. Links: https://pvchr.blogspot.com/2023/09/triumph-of-truth-paru-sonkars-acquittal.html and https://pvchr.blogspot.com/2023/09/reshams-journey-tale-of-hope-redemption.html

Social:

Quantitative Information:

1.     Nine group honor ceremonies engaged 90 survivors, while 40 survivors participated in individual honor ceremonies during the third session of testimonial therapy.

2.     Four capacity-building workshops are scheduled for delivery to survivors, featuring former beneficiaries of the program as trainers, referred to as Aguwas (community leaders), to mentor other survivors.

3.     Thirteen focus group discussions are designed to empower torture survivors, foster their healing journey, and cultivate critical thinking and resilience.

Qualitative Information:

• Honor Ceremonies: These ceremonies provided survivors with a platform to share their narratives and receive recognition, instilling a sense of dignity and community solidarity.
• Community Impact: The stories shared during honor ceremonies resonated deeply within communities, reaching a wider audience and facilitating communal healing and empowerment.
• Empowerment of Aguwas (community leader): Post-intervention, Aguwas have undergone significant positive transformations, equipped with enhanced knowledge and best practices in their respective focus areas. This empowerment enables them to intensify their support initiatives, extending their impact to a broader audience.
• Role of Intervention: The intervention played a pivotal role in facilitating these changes, providing Aguwas with essential resources, guidance, and information, thereby catalyzing their transition from limited knowledge and reach to impactful action.

Follow-Up:

Quantitative Impact:

1.     The follow-up process engaged 141 survivors as part of the fourth session of testimonial therapy.

2.     Livelihood initiatives aimed at economic empowerment reached 375 families, with 170 males and 205 females benefiting. Seasonal vegetable seeds, such as Bitter Gourd, Bottle Gourd, Beans, Corn, Pumpkin, and Sweet Gourd, were distributed to sustain these families. Twenty-one survivors (10 males and 11 females) received goats, facilitating sustainable income. Moreover, 647 survivors (232 males and 415 females) were provided with fruit trees, enhancing access to nutritious produce. Notably, one female survivor received a shop, fostering economic empowerment with the International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims (IRCT). Collaborating with the Indo-German Society of Remscheid and Ms. Helma Ritscher, the project planted 5000 saplings of Guava and Lemon in Raup Ghasia Basti, contributing to environmental conservation and community well-being.

Qualitative Information:

• The follow-up included post-mapping assessments using the WHO I 5, pain and anger analogues, and participation scales, comprehensively tracking survivors' progress and identifying ongoing support needs. Continuous follow-up activities, providing expertise and support, empowered survivors to protect their livelihoods effectively.
• Psychological Well-being Assessment: Using the WHO-Five Well-Being Index, the project observed more survivors reporting feelings of cheerfulness, relaxation, and high levels of activity and vigor. Daily life, filled with interests, significantly improved for many participants.

Overall Influence and Impact:

• The intervention positively influenced survivors' well-being and socio-economic status. Beyond economic opportunities, it significantly contributed to emotional well-being. Demonstrating potential for positive change, even in challenging circumstances, the project offers hope and improved quality of life to torture survivors.
• The goat rearing initiative yielded remarkable outcomes, with communities venturing into goat husbandry, creating a sustainable income source. For example, Ms. Chanda's success in selling two male goats, generating 15,000 INR, underscores the economic benefits. Additionally, selling goat milk at 400 Rupees per liter provided communities with extra income, enhancing economic stability. This multifaceted approach transformed livelihoods and created resilient, self-sufficient communities. Links for details: https://pvchr.blogspot.com/2023/09/voices-of-resilience-triumph-justice.html