‘…that by giving me current, by stripping me naked, or by brutally assaulting me – inserting stones in my rectum – will the problem of Naxalism end ? Why so many atrocities on women?’
– Soni Sori, in an open letter to citizens of the nation
On the 4th of October 2011, Soni Sori, a 36-year old adivasi school warden from Dantewada, Chhattisgarh was arrested on false charges of being a Maoist supporter and taken into custody by the Chhattisgarh police, by whom she was brutally tortured and sexually assaulted. While in custody, her right to life and dignity have been repeatedly violated by jail and police authorities. She has been consistently humiliated and denied medical attention. Soni, however, has tirelessly continued to fight against injustice. Her fight has become a symbol for thousands of mistreated women prisoners around the country.
WSS, along with other groups, launched a solidarity campaign for Sori. From a nation-wide postcard campaign to pressuring the NCW to look into Soni’s case, these groups have raised their voices in support of Soni and forced the nation and mainstream media to take note of the brutal acts of injustice that have been committed against her.
To know more about the campaign and about Soni Sori, click here.
For a comprehensive fact sheet on Soni’s case, click here.
WSS 