But thanks to the ongoing ´Occupy Baluwatar´ movement -- a spontaneous public outcry demanding justice to the victims of violence against women, dozens of victims of rape and other gender based violence are making their strong presence in front of the Prime Minister´s residence in Baluwatar, demanding justice without further delay.[break]
“I am participating in this demonstration since the very beginning, demanding quick action to the perpetrators of the violence against Saraswati Subedi, Sita Rai and Chhorimaiya Maharjan, among others. Justice in these cases means a lot to me for I am a rape victim too,” said 15-year-old Nistha Parajuli (name changed), who hails from Morang district. “Before I joined the movement, I was sad and disturbed. Now, I have the courage to fight for myself and the others.”
The eleventh grader told Republica that she was doing her homework alone at home when her neighbor Praveen Giri, 20, closed the door and raped her, causing severe injuries.
“It has already been 34 days since we filed complaint against him; but the police have not taken any action so far,” she added.
She was brought to a shelter home of a social organization Saathi 15 days ago. The organization has been providing legal support to Parajuli.
Meena Sharma, 16, of Kapilbastu, who is still getting treatment for burns, is among the regular participants of the movement. Sharma was set on fire by her husband and in-laws due to dowry reasons two years ago. “They had wanted to kill me but the villagers saved me. I wish I could punish each of them but the police say they are no more in the village,” said Sharma, adding that she is feeling good and empowered to see even film actors among the demonstrators of the movement.
According to human rights activist, Bandana Rana, a huge number of girls like Parajuli and Sharma are involved in the movement in the hope of justice. “Many victimized girls and women aged between 14 and 30 are participating in the movement. This movement has empowered them and made them aware of their rights,” said Rana.
Meanwhile, an investigation committee formed to look into the cases of victimized women, including Saraswati Subedi, Sita Rai and Chhorimaiya Maharjan, said they investigation into the cases were in progress. Monha Ansari, a member of the investigation committee and spokesperson of the Mational Women Commission, said post-mortem report of Subedi would be publicized on Sunday. We will make public progress made so far in other cases very soon, said Ansari.
A team, including Ansari, is in Bara for further investigation into several cases of violence against women in the district.
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