Amit Jethwa had just left his lawyer’s office after discussing a lawsuit he had filed to stop an illicit limestone quarry with ties to powerful local politicians. That is when the assassins struck, speeding out of the darkness on a roaring motorbike, pistols blazing. He died on the spot, blood pouring from his mouth and nose. He was 38. Mr. Jethwa was one of millions of Indians who had embraced...
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Why did Vypari Bai die? by Kalpana Sharma
Women in rural India continue to die because of indifference and neglect by healthcare authorities... This is a public health warning. Do not express concern for the state of healthcare in this country. Do not express anger that women die because they are either denied care or help is delayed when they have complicated pregnancies. Do not demand that healthcare is an entitlement that the poor have a right to demand...
More »NAC for more powers to dwellers under Forest Act by Anirban Bhaumik
The National Advisory Council headed by Congress president Sonia Gandhi is unhappy with the poor implementation of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, which was once billed as a landmark initiative of the UPA I for economic empowerment of the tribal people. The NAC now wants the government to change the law to make it more effective and has recommended several amendments, including one to...
More »Dalit women's aspirations brought home impact of 'double discrimination'
Emily Esplen visited a community in Dhaka where inspiring community organisers are showing change is possible When I met members of the Dalit Women's Forum in Dhaka last month, they told me about the changes they want to see in their lives and communities. They want their daughters to go to school and stay in school. They want privacy and security when bathing in communal areas. They want health care and...
More »Meet to prepare national policy for tribals
The first-ever meeting of the Standing Committee of National Tribal Welfare Committee comprising representatives of all states was held on Wednesday with an aim to prepare a draft national policy to improve the the life of tribals and ensure that they get their rights. Minister of Tribal Affairs Kantilal Bhuria said till now each state was making its own policy due to which the overall development of the community was...
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