A Journey of Justice and Resilience
My life has been a journey defined by the relentless pursuit of justice, the struggle against systemic oppression, and the unwavering belief in the power of non-violent resistance. As I reflect on the path that has led me here, I am filled with gratitude, pride, and an enduring commitment to the cause of human rights.
Early Life and Awakening
I was born in Varanasi, a city steeped in spiritual and cultural heritage, yet marred by deep-seated social inequities. Growing up, I was acutely aware of the pervasive caste-based discrimination that plagued our society. The harsh realities faced by Dalits and other marginalized communities were not mere abstractions; they were the lived experiences of my friends, neighbors, and countless others whose voices were silenced by centuries of oppression.
My parents, who instilled in me the values of empathy and justice, played a pivotal role in shaping my worldview. Their teachings ignited a fire within me to challenge the status quo and fight for the rights of those who had been relegated to the margins of society.
Founding the People’s Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR)
In 1996, driven by a deep-seated need to address these injustices, I co-founded the People’s Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR). Our mission was clear: to advocate for the rights of marginalized communities, particularly Dalits and Adivasis, and to create a society free from caste-based discrimination.
The journey was fraught with challenges. We faced threats, intimidation, and legal persecution from those who felt threatened by our activism. Yet, we remained undeterred. The resilience of the communities we served, their unwavering hope for a better future, and the solidarity of my colleagues kept us moving forward.
A New Social Movement
Our approach was rooted in non-violence and grassroots mobilization. We organized numerous campaigns, workshops, and awareness programs to educate people about their rights and empower them to stand up against injustice. Our efforts bore fruit as we witnessed significant changes in the lives of those we worked with. Children who had been forced into labor returned to school, families reclaimed their dignity, and communities began to unite against the oppressive structures that had held them back for generations.
One of our landmark initiatives was the campaign against bonded labor. We exposed and dismantled numerous bonded labor systems, liberating thousands from a life of servitude. The stories of these individuals, their resilience and courage, continue to inspire me every day.
Recognition and Challenges
In 2018, my efforts were internationally recognized when I was awarded a special mention in the Human Rights Prize of the French Republic, under the theme “Liberty, Equality, Fraternity.” The citation highlighted my dedication to eliminating caste-based discrimination and creating a non-violent social movement to combat forced labor. This recognition was a testament to the collective efforts of everyone at PVCHR and the indomitable spirit of the communities we serve.
However, the journey to receiving this honor was not without its trials. Despite the announcement of the award in 2018, I faced delays and bureaucratic hurdles that prevented me from receiving the recognition in person. The wait was long and filled with uncertainty, but it also reinforced my resolve to continue fighting for justice.
I speculated that my past criticisms of European support for certain nationalist ideologies might have influenced these delays. Despite these setbacks, my commitment to advocating for human rights never wavered. I remained steadfast in my belief that truth and justice would eventually prevail.
Reflections on Varanasi and Pluralism
Varanasi, my home, is a city that embodies the spirit of pluralism and diversity. It has produced legendary figures like Ustad Bismillah Khan and Pt. Ravi Shankar, whose contributions to music have enriched our cultural heritage. Writers like Munshi Premchand and philosophers like Bhagwan Das have shaped India’s intellectual landscape.
The proposal to declare Varanasi a Living Heritage City resonates deeply with me. It is a testament to the city’s ancient charm and the need to preserve its cultural and social fabric. Teaching younger generations the values of pluralism and reconciliation is essential to counter sectarianism and foster a harmonious society. As Varanasi continues to be a beacon of India’s civilizational ethos, it reminds us that our greatest strength lies in our diversity.
Looking Forward
As I look to the future, I remain committed to the fight for justice and equality. The challenges are immense, but the resilience and hope of the communities we serve continue to inspire me. I am deeply grateful to my life partner, Shruti Nagvanshi, and my mentor, Dr. Mohanlal Panda, whose support has been invaluable. My heartfelt thanks go to Shirin Shabana Khan for her extraordinary efforts that led to the recognition of our work.
The special mention from the CNCDH is not just an honor; it is a call to action. It is a reminder that the fight against caste-based discrimination and forced labor is far from over. Together, we must continue to advocate for the rights of the marginalized and work towards a society where liberty, equality, and fraternity are not just ideals, but realities for all.
Continuing the Fight for Justice
My journey has been one of resilience, hope, and unwavering commitment to the cause of human rights. The recognition from the CNCDH reinforces the importance of our work and the need to continue advocating for those whose voices have been silenced for too long. As we move forward, I am filled with hope and determination, knowing that the path to justice, though arduous, is one worth treading. Together, we can create a world where every individual, regardless of their caste or background, can live with dignity and freedom.