On International Women’s Day, March 8, 2022 one of JVI’s justice hubs organized a training in Shivaji Nagar – one of the largest slums in Mumbai, India –  where 41 teenage girls were trained on their rights and legal processes. 

The training started with a lesson on why we celebrate International Women’s Day. None of the girls were aware of the history of this day. However, they were eager to understand this global day dedicated to uplifting women and honoring their achievements. It made them feel special! 

Attendees were then educated on filing information with police to register an FIR. An FIR (First Information Report) is a written document prepared by the police when they receive information about the commission of a crime.The filing of an FIR is the first step that sets the justice system in motion for serious criminal offences that pose an immediate danger to society such as murder, rape, or robbery. The slum in which these girls live is large, crowded, and at times, dangerous.

The training empowered the girls to recognize their rights and how to protect themselves, and others, when injustice occurs. They were very engaged, asked great questions, and expressed a determination to speak up and take action on behalf of justice.