On November 22, 2024, 16-year-old Savita* found herself wandering aimlessly on the platform at a New Delhi railway station, looking confused and apprehensive. When approached by a local Justice Hub team, she initially claimed to be an orphan traveling from Lucknow to Delhi in search of work promised by a cousin. But as they gently probed, fear flickered in her eyes as the truth began to unravel.
Recognizing her distress, the team quickly took her to the Railway Protection Force (RPF) for counseling. There, Savita shared her real story – that she wasn’t an orphan but that life at home with her family was a nightmare. Her mother often unleashed her anger on Savita, seeking money through any means necessary, while her brother had betrayed Savita in the most horrific way. Savita had sought to flee the abuse by seeking refuge in the city.
The social worker from the Justice Hub partner listened intently as Savita bravely disclosed the abuse she had endured. Understanding the urgency of the situation, the social worker reached out to the local police in Lucknow. The police confirmed that Savita’s mother had reported her missing, and they agreed to ensure her safety until they could intervene. As news of the situation reached the police, they acted immediately to file charges against Savita’s brother under POCSO (Protection of Children Against Sexual Offences Act) and place Savita in a temporary shelter home. Plans were also set in motion for her transfer to a more permanent shelter home where she could receive ongoing support and rehabilitation. Savita finally found herself surrounded by people dedicated to helping her reclaim her life, ensuring she would have the tools and resources to build a brighter future.
Savita’s story is a reminder that the collective efforts of the community are required to protect the vulnerable and empower those who have suffered.
*NAME CHANGED TO PROTECT IDENTITY
