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LIFE STYLE OF RICKSHAW PULLERS IN VARANASI
INTRODUCTION
Communication is the process of sharing information. In a simplistic form information is sent from a sender or encoder to a receiver or decoder. In a more complex form feedback links a sender to a receiver. Communication is an important process and is associated with man to cradle to birth. However it comes effect when the person understands the message send by the sender properly. According to communicologist HAROLD LASWELL five elements play a major role to tune the process of communication as a whole like the rhythms of songs , which make it beautiful . These five elements called source ,message, channel , receiver and effect .The message send by the source is a coded content which is pass through the medium and is decoded accordingly to get the meaning to create an effect . The receiver under stands the coded contents – when he decoded it properly. Human beings require the basic necessity of life such as food ,cloth, shelter medicines ,education jobs, entertainment etc. But negligence in one thing may bring that person into a awful situation , from where his/her image will be looked down upon the society. For all these basic requirement one needs money due to which people from the rural areas flung to urban areas to increase their standard of living. Lastly communication, with one, another is a compulsive urge for human being. There can be no mutual understanding without communication. Mutual understanding is the care of human relations. Communication like birth, death, and wanting to be live as a part of life itself. Man is itself a communicating animal; he alone has the power to understanding without communication. Mutual understand express in words through sight sound touch, smell , and taste are the modes of exchange of message. Communication is the story of man and his effort to communicate effectively in the civilization and culture progress to the extent communication has made these possible.
Grassroots communication is communication that involves the relaying of essential information through clear, unbiased, and unreserved channels to ordinary people so that they can use it constructively to improve their well being to. In grassroots level information machinery can be used to educate people about there self-development. Governments, aid agencies, NGOs and others are increasingly recognizing the important role of the media in development. That’s because media freedom and access to information can encourage grassroots participation and the empowerment of the poor. A free and independent media can empower disadvantaged people. It can contribute to sustainable economic development through improved communication between everyone from the most senior politicians down to the grassroots man; a free and independent media can increase transparency, accountability and good governance. So, is there a need for grassroots communication today? The unequivocal answer is, ‘Yes, there is’. Yes, we need media freedom but if we have that freedom we also have a responsibility to use it well and use it to help the grassroots people. One of the underlying aims of grassroots action learning is to give voice to those who are often ignored in conventional impact assessment. However it cannot be assumed that merely calling a process ‘grassroots ‘ learning or using diagrams and symbols will automatically lead to greater inclusion of disadvantaged individuals or groups. It may be difficult for those directly involved in the process to be consistently aware of those whom their enthusiasm may inadvertently be excluding. In other cases there may be implicit or even explicit strategies to exclude certain people and groups because of inherent conflicts of interest and power relations. The grassroots learning process must therefore be based on:
clear analysis of different interests and power relations which affects who participates and how.
participatory principles and tools which guide the learning process to ensure equal participation of those currently disadvantaged and excluded.
Participation in grass-roots action learning more will involve people at a number of different levels which may or may not overlap:
As learners/ investigators/ facilitators
As informants
As beneficiaries/recipients of the information collected
HISTORY OF RICKSHAW
In the pastoral stage of economic progress, man began to use certain animals as beasts of burden. Goats, cows and buffaloes gave him milk and flesh, also skins and hides. Sheep gave him wool. But the ponies and horses provided him with a fast mode of transport. The bullock, mule, elephant served as beasts of burden in the district. With the development of agriculture, the need for moving goods and persons from place to place also increased. Man harnessed horses, ponies and bullocks for carrying heavy merchandise on suitable vehicles and thus began to move heavy loads from place to place. In the district as elsewhere in northern plains the bullock-cart was designed, in such a manner that it could haul heavy loads from place to place and on any [kind of track. Next came ekkas, tongas and kharkharas, which were pulled by ponies or horses. These vehicles were faster and better designed.. Locally bred animals were very cheap, the price of a pair of bullocks ranged between Rs. 18 and Rs. 20, at the beginning of this century. While those brought from other districts had to be paid for any sum between Rs 50 and Rs 100 per pair.
With the development of roads, faster vehicles like ekkas and tongas began to increase in number. An ekka, tonga or a cart, having a good horse or pony covered about 8 km , in an hour. The bicycle came into use as a means of transport in this district early in the twenties of this century and this inexpensive conveyance is in use equally in the urban and rural areas.
Cycle-rickshaws appeared on the roads of Gorakhpur district in 1945 and their number has more than double since 1950. The majority of these vehicles are concentrated at Gorakhpur, where there were 5,019 cycle-rickshaws in 1972-73. This conveyance, which is economical both for the passengers and the owner,has driven out hackney carriages from the roads of Gorakhpur city.. A cycle-rickshaw driver pays Rs 3 for hiring a vehicle for 24 hours, and earns about Rs 5 to Rs 8 in the same space of time. State Bank of India has drawn up a plan, which will enable 770 rickshaw-pullers to buy cycle-rickshaws. A total loan of Rs 4,77,000 will be made available to them in the Fifth Five-year plan.
Rickshaws (or rickshas) are a mode of human-powered transport: a runner draws a two-wheeled cart which seats one or two persons. Rickshaws were mainly used in Asia, but nowadays they are outlawed in many places and have been replaced by cycle rickshaws and auto rickshaws. The term "rickshaw" is today commonly used for those vehicles as well, but this article deals exclusively with runner-pulled rickshaws.
The word "rickshaw" originates from the Japanese word jinrikisha ( jin = human, riki = force, sha = vehicle), which literally means "human-powered vehicle."
The 1707 painting "Les deux carrosses" by Claude Gillot shows two rickshaw-like carts in a comical scene. These carts, known as vinaigrettes because of their resemblance to the wheel barrows of vinegar makers, were used in the streets of Paris in the 17th and 18th century. (Fresnault-Deruelle, 2005)
Rickshaws first appeared in Japan around 1868, with the beginning of the Meiji period. They soon became a popular mode of transportation, since they were faster than the previously used palanquins (and human labor was considerably cheaper than using horses).
The identity of the inventor (if there was one) remains uncertain. Some sources give the American blacksmith Albert Tolman, who is said to have invented the rickshaw around 1848 in Worcester, Massachusetts for a missionary; others claim that Jonathan Scobie (or W. Goble), an American missionary to Japan, invented rickshaws around 1869 to transport his invalid wife through the streets of Yokohama. Still others say the rickshaw was designed by an American Baptist minister in 1888. Japanese sources often credit Izumi Yosuke, Suzuki Tokujiro, and Takayama Kosuke, who are said to have invented rickshaws in 1868, inspired by the horse carriages that had been introduced to the steets of Tokyo shortly before. Starting in 1870, the Tokyo government issued a permission to build and sell rickshaws to these three men; the seal of one of these inventors was also required on every license to operate a rickshaw.
By 1872, some 40,000 rickshaws were operating in Tokyo; they soon became the chief form of public transportation in Japan. (Powerhouse Museum, 2005; The Jinrikisha story, 1996)
Around 1880, rickshaws appeared in India, first in Simla and then, 20 years later, in Calcutta (now Kolkata). Here they were initially used by Chinese traders to transport goods; in 1914 the Chinese applied for permission to use rickshaws to transport passengers. Soon after, rickshaws appeared in many big cities in Southeast Asia; pulling a rickshaw was often the first job for peasants migrating to these cities.
In China, rickshaws were banned after the Communist takeover in 1949.
Kolkata
As of 2005, the last sizeable fleet of true rickshaws can be found in Kolkata (Calcutta), where the rickshaw puller union resisted prohibition.
Several major streets have been closed to rickshaw traffic since 1972, and in 1982 the city seized over 12,000 rickshaws and destroyed them. In 1992, it was estimated that over 30,000 rickshaws were operating in the city, all but 6,000 of them illegally, lacking a license (no new licenses have been issued since 1945). The large majority of rickshaw pullers rent their rickshaws for a few dollars per shift. They live cheaply in hostels, trying to save money to send home. (Eide, 1993)
In August 2005, the Communist government of West Bengal announced plans to completely ban rickshaws, resulting in protests and strikes
BANARAS
Godaulia (VARANASI,2006)
When British came to India during 19th century to capture and rule over it, they brought various resources from their homeland to utilize in India. For traveling they used the ponies and horses, which is the fasted mode of transportation. Man harnessed horses, ponies and bullocks for carrying heavy merchandise on suitable vehicles and thus began to move heavy loads from place to place. First of all ekkas,bullock carts,tongas which were pulled by ponies or horses. These vehicles were faster and better designed. Then Britishers brought rickshaws from Kolkotta to Varanasi in the year 1907.
Area profile
THE STATE –
The state Uttar Pradesh capital city is Lucknow which is situated 26.85 degree north ,80.91 degree east .kanpur is the largest city in U.P. the population of U.P is 166,052,859 with a density of 696/km.sq (2001census) .It is divided in to 3 distinct hypsographical regions :The Himalaya region in north ,the Gangetac Plain in the center , the Vindhya Hills and Plateau in the south U.P state consists of 70 districts ,which are grouped in to 17 divisions :Agra ,Azamgarh ,Allah bad ,Kanpur, Gorakhpur, Chitrakoot ,Jhansi ,Devipatan, Faizabad, Bahraich, Bareilly, Basti, Mirzapur, Moradabad ,Meerut ,Lucknow, Varanasi, Farrukhabad and Saharanpur. Population with over 175 million inhabitants, Uttar Pradesh is the most populous sub national entity in the world. The state language is Hindi. Language of western parts, called (kandiboli) is the basis for official language. The most commonly spoken language ofU.P,which is also one of the official language of India.The most commonly spoken language in urban area is hindi/urduimportant dialects of U.P is Khadi boli,Awadhi,Koshali,Braj(which are more than 2000 year old). Koeli, bagheli,Bundeli&Bhopuri. The state of U.P has made investment over the years in all sectors of education & has achieved some success. Some progress in adult education has been made & the census of 2001 indicates a male literacy rate of 70.23% & a female literacy of 42.98%. The state has a large number of village council known as Panchayats just like the other states of India. One of the most developed Panchayat is Sahabad in Maharajganj district of U.P.
THE MAP OF VARANASI
DISTRICT BANARAS
Varanasi is one of the easternmost districts of Uttar Pradesh. Bhadohi district lies on the west of it, Jaunpur is in the north-west, Ghazipur is in the north-east while Shahabad district of Bihar State bounds it from east. Mirzapur and Sonbhadra districts form the southern boundry. When sketched on a map, the shape of the district looks like the Arabic numeral seven with a truncated limb. The total area of the district is 4010.7 sq. kms. The district headquarters is located at Varanasi.
The district is picturesquely placed on both sides of the Ganga river. The northern part of it is alluvial plain while the southern part is having hilly tracts of projecting mountainous ranges of Vindhyas. The district is made up of two natural divisions, namely, the plain under the Ganga and its tributaries and the plateau area of Naugarh. Naugarh development block of Chakia tehsil has mountainous ridges overcast with dense forests and deep valleys drenched with rushing streams. The river system consists of two rivers – the mighty Ganga highly revered by Hindus since ages and its main tributary Gomti, Varuna, Asi, Banganga, Chandra Prabha and Karmanasa are the other important tributaries of the Ganga that drain the area. The soil of the hilly-tract is hard and of red colour. In some places pieces of alkaline land is also found but a major part of Chandauli tehsil has black soil. The total area under forest in the district is 77404 hectares and almost 90% of it is found in Naugarh development block of Chakia tehsil. The forest area mostly belonged to eastwhile Banaras princely State that is presently under the charge of U.P. forest department. Benarasi langra and yellowish betel leaves (Banarasi pan) grown in the district are famous throughout the country.
TOTAL POPULATION OF BANARAS
Total population of the district, according to 1991 census is about 3.8 million. There are 889 females per 1000 males. Rural population of the district is about 68.7% and urban population is about 31.3%0. The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes population of the district is 17.2% and 2.0% respectively. The density of population is 951 per sq. km. Decennial growth rate between 1981 and 1991 was 30.77%. Main languages spoken in the district of Varanasi are Hindi, Bengali and Urdu.
Table 1. Profile of Varanasi district at a glance
Area (Sq. Kms)
4010.7
Population (1991 census)
3.8 million
Population density (per sq. kms)
951
Sex ratio (Females per 1000 males)
889 (Rural 900, Urban 860)
Literacy rate (percent)
47.70 (Males 64.37, Females 28.87)
The Varanasi district has 4 tehsils and 17 Community Development Blocks. It has 15 towns and 2970 villages. (Table-2)
Table 2. Administrative Units in District
Adm. Units
No.
Name
Tehsils
4
Varanasi, Sakaldiha, Chandauli, Chakia
Community Development blocks
17
Naya Panchayat
108
Gram Panchayats
702
Table 3. Villages having one or more amenities in the district (1991 census)
Amenities
No. of inhabited villages
%
Education
2091
56.48
Medical
3702
100.00
Drinking water
3702
100.00
Post and Telegraph
429
11.59
Market/Hat
222
6.00
Communications
1171
31.63
Approach by pucca road
1700
45.92
Power supply
3265
88.20
The relatively developed infra-structure and concentration of artisans with traditional skills handed down to them by their forefathers have given the industrial sector, a respectable place in the economy of the district. Yet agriculture continues to dominate the economic scene engaging majority of the working force. Kharif and rabi are two principal crops grown in the district respectively having 58 and 42 percent of the total area sown under them. Paddy occupies predominant position followed by wheat. Sugarcane is the main commercial crop followed by San-hemp.Animal husbandry not only provides draught power for agriculture but it is also an important source of supplementing income of the farmers. Cows, buffaloes, goats and sheeps are the main livestock found in the district. The quality of milch animal in the district is poor. Efforts are under way to improve the quality of progeny. Veterinary services are available through 31 hospitals, three dispensaries and 43 service centers. There are 17 artificial insemination centers and 30 sub-centers where artificial insemination facilities are available. A big sheep breeding farm has also been set up and emphasis is also being given on the development of poultry.Situated on the Grand Trunk Road the district has well laid out road and rail links. The services of both Northern and Northeastern Railways are available in the district. There are three National Highways and State Highways passing through the district. Air services are also available.Geological surveys have revealed that there are deposits of bauxite in Chakia tehsil. Fine sand, gravel and building stones are also found. There are seven large and medium scale industrial units in the district. There are 200 industrial units registered under Factories Act 1948, employing on an average 16040 persons. Of these units 115 are located in urban areas and 85 in rural areas. Varanasi is famous for handicrafts. The beautiful brocades, gossamer fabrics and carpets have earned worldwide popularity. Handloom weaving of fabrics is also very important industry of the district. Silk weaving industry enjoys country-wide market and its products are also exported abroad. Wooden toys and brassware industries are also prominent in the city. The important commodities manufactured in towns of the district are diesel engines, silk sarees, and rice.The district is well placed in matter of medical facilities. There are several general hospitals, in addition to Mental and Infectious Disease hospital. The medical college located in the vicinity of BHU provided education under allopathic system of treatment while the Ayurvedic College in the precint of Sampurnanand Sanskrit Vishwa Vidyalaya imparts education based on Indian system of medicine. A ratio of 2.90 beds per thousand of population has been obtained in the medical institutions in the district. Major government medical institutions and the health personnel working in these institutions are given in Table 3 and 4.
Table 4. Medical Institutions in District Varanasi
Medical institution
No.
No. of beds
District Hospitals
2
466
Medical College Hospital
2
1037
Institute of Child Health
1
Talika Hospital
15
Govt. Hospitals
5
699
Charitable Hospitals
12
T.B.Centre
1
58
Health posts
15
P.P.Centres
4
Urban dispensaries
3
CHC’s
4
120
PHC’s
8
42
Mini PHC’s
22
88
Sub-centres
244
Other Institutions
School of Nursing
1
JPHN training
1
District Medical Store
1
Food Inspector’s Office
8
Table 5. Health personnel working in Government sector in district Varanasi
Name of the post
Number
Civil Surgeon
1
Assistant Surgeon
4
Dental Surgeon
7
Medical Officers
213
Pharmacist
52
Head Nurse
3
Staff Nurse
114
Health supervisors (Block)
16
Lady Health Supervisor
104
Health Inspector (Panchayat)
16
Junior Health Inspector
83
ANM
293
Laboratory technicians
20
SOCIO CULTURAL STATUS
The land of Varanasi (Kashi) has been the ultimate pilgrimage spot for Hindus for ages. Often referred to as Benares, Varanasi is the oldest living city in the world. These few lines by Mark Twain say it all: "Benaras is older than history, older than tradition, older even than legend and looks twice as old as all of them put together". Hindus believe that one who is graced to die on the land of Varanasi would attain salvation and freedom from the cycle of birth and re-birth. Abode of Lord Shiva and Parvati, the origins of Varanasi are yet unknown. Ganges in Varanasi is believed to have the power to wash away the sins of mortals. Ganges is said to have its origins in the tresses of Lord Shiva and in Varanasi, it expands to the mighty river that we know of. The city is a center of learning and civilization for over 3000 years. With Sarnath, the place where Buddha preached his first sermon after enlightenment, just 10 km away, Varanasi has been a symbol of Hindu renaissance. Knowledge, philosophy, culture, devotion to Gods, Indian arts and crafts have all flourished here for centuries. Also a pilgrimage place for Jains, Varanasi is believed to be the birthplace of Parsvanath, the twenty-thirdTirthankar. Vaishnavism and Shaivism have co-existed in Varanasi harmoniously. With a number of temples, Mrs. Annie Besant chose Varanasi as the home for her 'Theosophical Society' and Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya, to institute 'Benares Hindu University, the biggest University in Asia. Ayurveda is said to be originated at Varanasi and is believed to be the basis of modern medical sciences such as Plastic surgery, Cataract and Calculus operations. Maharshi Patanjali, the preceptor of Ayurveda and Yoga, was also affiliated with Varanasi, the holy city. Varanasi is also famous for its trade and commerce, especially for the finest silks and gold and silver brocades, since the early days.Varanasi has also been a great center of learning for ages. Varanasi is associated with promotion of spiritualism, mysticism, Sanskrit, yoga and Hindi language and honored authors such as the ever-famous novelist Prem Chand and Tulsi Das, the famous saint-poet who wrote Ram Charit Manas. Aptly called as the cultural capital of India, Varanasi has provided the right platform for all cultural activities to flourish. Many exponents of dance and music have come from Varanasi. Ravi Shankar, the internationally renowned Sitar maestro and Ustad Bismillah Khan, (the famous Shehnai player) are all sons of the blessed city or have lived here for major part of their lives.Varanasi is famous for its religious and spiritual lifestyle. One of the most important pilgrimage spots for Jains, Buddhists and especially Hindus, Varanasi is situated on the banks of Holy Ganges, which plays an important role in day-to-day lives of the people of varanasi. Being the oldest living city, Varanasi has been a mute witness to many great historic upheavals and events. Mythology reins the city and there are many religious places and institutions and places of worship throughout the city where people visit everyday, especially in the mornings and the evenings. On closer look, one can still find the primitive worship cults that are still in practice in the city. The religiosity of the region is evident from the fact that Buddha, Jain Tirthankars, several Shaiva and Vaishnava saints, Kabir and Tulsi were either born here or were associated with the place in a significant way and have spent along time here. People of Benaras are known for being the exponents of literature, music, Vedic philosophy, arts, crafts and architecture. Socio-economic aspects of the city are highly influenced by the Ganges and on most of the Hindu festivals people can be seen using the bathing Ghats (river fronts) even before daybreak as an important part of their rituals. In Varanasi, the atmosphere is relaxed in general and we can see people chewing the famous 'paan' and chatting in a laid-back manner. That does not keep Varanasi behind, as is evident from the growing modern industries in the city. Varanasi is also the most ancient seat of education in India (Sarva Vidya ki Rajdhani) and Benaras Hindu University is still famous throughout the world for its scholars. The city is also a seat for Sanskrit and one can still see the Guru-Shishya tradition being followed here at certain places. Several social and religious customs co-exist in the city and the caste system is still prevalent here. People wear 'Gamcha' (a cotton towel), as they go bathing in Ganga and drink Thandai (a coolant with milk as its base), which have become a part of the cultural identity of traditional ways of Varanasi. Music, drama and entertainment have found a place in the lives of the people. Its dance traditions and vocal and instrumental music is highly developed and one can catch the glimpses of folk drama in the 'Ramlila' organized before Dussehra. Traditional games and sports include 'Akharas', where wrestling or 'kushti' competitions are organized. Foreign tourists love to ride horse-driven 'Ekkas' and cycle rickshaws that are still in use here. Indian medical science of Ayurveda, yoga and meditation are cherished here since ages.
CLIMATE.
Situated in Uttar Pradesh, in northern part of India, Varanasi is located on the banks of the holy river, Ganges. During summers, weather can be as hot as 45° C and humid too as Varanasi lies at the Tropic of cancer. Torrential rains and high humidity accompanies the monsoons that usually come in late June or early July for about two months. Delicious and juicy mangoes offer little relief from the sweating weather. On the other hand, winters are pleasant and temperature dips down to about 7°C. In Varanasi, the climatic conditions are most favorable for the tourists between October to April. For those who are ready to face a sun and don't mind the odor of sweat, Varanasi is a place to visit all the year
FOOD
Just like its rich culture and lifestyle, Varanasi is equally famous for its rich variety of foods and cuisines. The sumptuous and delicious but tangy and spicy North Indian food and snacks are the best options to try at Varanasi. However, one can get good Chinese, Italian, Continental and South-Indian food too. There are good number of Byzantine eateries and restaurants in the cities where one can explore for the food that suits one's tastes. The wide variety of mouth-watering sweets and 'chatpate' snacks are just not to be missed.There is 'paapri-chaat', which plays with your taste buds with its tangy and spicy flavor of ginger and tamarind chutney and the cooling and soothing yoghurt. While talking about the specialties of Benarasi flavors, who can ever forget the sour and sweet 'Langda aam', a variety of mango available in summers and the fragrant 'Benarasi paan' that is often added with aromatic essences such as that of rose and 'supari' (areca-nut) along with other goodies. Chewing this 'paan' seems to be a part of the cultural identity of the people of Varanasi. One can find some good Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Continental, Mexican, Greek and vegetarian South-Indian cuisine and snacks and sweets offers to eat to your fill in the old city or Godaulia, Cantonment area and near Railway Station or Lahurabir area
FESTIVAL IN VARANASI
Varanasi is the most popular pilgrimage place for the Hindus. The rich cultural heritage and tradition of Varanasi makes it the cultural capital of India. For ages, Varanasi has been a center of learning of Indian philosophy, spiritualism, mysticism and other branches of education. Varanasi is essentially a melting pot of Indian culture. In Hindu religion, it is believed that one, who dies and is cremated at Varanasi, gets an instant gateway to liberation from the cycle of births and re-births. Being associated with Hindu traditions and religion, Varanasi is home to numerous temples, muths and Ashrams.By virtue of its religious and cultural importance, Varanasi is abuzz with fairs and festivals all round the year. Almost every month, some important festival is celebrated in Varanasi. Besides festivals and holidays, many "Melas" or fairs are also held at Varanasi At varanasi, fairs and festivals are celebrated with traditional gaiety and fervor and are symbolic of celebration of life at its best. The festive atmosphere never seems to end in Varanasi. It's not important to make itinerary according to the dates and months as one can come and enjoy the festive season of Varanasi any time of the year!
TRANSPORTATION
Varanasi is the cultural capital of India and the melting pot of Indian civilization. Varanasi or Benaras has a well-developed transport network and is well connected to all the major Indian cities and states by air, road and rail.
By AirVaranasi is well connected and accessible to major Indian cities and tourist spots. There are daily domestic flights to and from Varanasi to several cities in India. Apart from the state owned Indian Airlines, there are many private air taxi operators that offer their services from Varanasi to other Indian cities. In fact, the daily flights on Delhi-Agra-Khajuraho-Varanasi route are quite popular among the tourists
By RailSince Varanasi lies in the heartland of the North Indian plains, it is well connected to Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai and other parts of India. There are two railway stations in Varanasi, the Kashi Junction and the Varanasi Junction (also known as Varanasi Cantonment). Rajdhani Express from Delhi or from Calcutta passes through Varanasi too. One can also catch trains from Mughalsarai, just 10 km south of Varanasi.
By RoadSituated in the flat Ganga plains, Varanasi has a good network of roads. frequent public and private buses and road transport to all the major towns of Uttar Pradesh and nearby areas.
ART & CULTURE
The art and culture of Varanasi is unique. It is the rich cultural tradition of Varanasi that makes it the cultural capital of India. A combination of archaeology, mythology, geography, art and history makes Varanasi a great center of Indian culture. Though Varanasi is associated mainly with Hinduism and Buddhism but one can find glimpse of many religious beliefs, types of worship and religious institutions at Varanasi. It is amazing to see the primitive worship cults being practiced at Varanasi. Varanasi presents a complete museum of Indian art and culture. At Varanasi one can feel the changing patterns and movements in course of history. It has a rich and unique style of art forms and folk art. For centuries, Varanasi has produced master craftsmen and earned name and fame for its beautiful Sarees, handicrafts, textiles, toys, ornaments, metal work, clay and woodwork and other crafts.Since ancient times, Varanasi has been the Capital of all knowledge (sarva Vidya ki Rajdhani). Varanasi has produced numerous famous scholars and intellectuals, who have left their mark in respective fields of activity. Varanasi is home to numerous universities, college, schools, Madarsas and Pathshalas and the Guru Shishya tradition still continue in many institutions. The literary tradition of languages, dialects, newspapers, magazines and libraries continue to even this day. Vanarasi presents a unique social and cultural fabric. Cultural and linguist pluralism and various ethnic groups are so very eternal to the holy city, Varanasi. At Varanasi one gets to explore the city of affluence, intellectuals, oral traditions, castes and customs, personalities, professions and communal harmony. There is another interesting facet to Varanasi, where one gets to enjoy Benarasi pans, Thandai, Gamcha, Bahri Alang and Mauj Masti. Music, drama and entertainment are all synonymous with Varanasi. Benaras has long been famous for its music, both vocal and instrumental and has its own dance traditions. Add to this, Varanasi has a very rich stock of folk music and drama (esp. Ramlila), fairs and festival and the rich tradition of akharas, games and sports. All these combine together to give a distinct look to the city of moksha, Varanasi.
STATEMENT
View of Nagar Nigam
Sontosh Bharati, Licenses Adhikari age 40 living in Banaras, He said that there are 2 unions in Varanasi {Banaras Rickshawan Mahasabha, Akil Bharatiya Rickshawchallak sangh of sanjay ray}. There are around 14,800 registered Rickshaw pullers, but the maximum number upto which registration of Rickshaw can be done is upto 25,000.For licenses the amount, which is taken, is (Rs 8 is taken as fees, Rs5 for insurance Rs 2 for form & Rs 9 for photo total amount taken by Nagar nigam is Rs 24). Rickshaw pullers pay Rs 9 and owner pay Rs150 (yearly). Suppose a Rickshaw puller is unable to make the New D.L in the given time period then he has to pay Rs 75 monthly as a fine. He opined that some Rickshaw pullers are giving different amount such as Rs 39,Rs 42 Rs 45 because this licenses is made by the petition writer of union who sit in different places inside Nagar nigam to fill up the form it is there total responsibility to make licenses so according to there interest they take money for them the region for this was when licensed was made before by the Nagar nigam Rickshaw pullers stand in a large queque for registration . These Rickshaw pullers were quite fed up with this system so they wanted this thing to be done in a more quicker manner, so that they can earn more income than standing in the line for a such longer period of time. They have build 25 stand for Nagar nigam that is in Queens collage ,Lahuravir,Maidagin ,Bhelupur,Gurudham churaha, Lanka, Kasistation ,Beniya ….but now these stand have been forcibly taken by the Padadhikari, who have made this stand as Dhabas (Hotels),garage etc .For this reason there was continuous conflict among Nagar nigam and padadhikari .There is a rule that one man can keep only 5 Rickshaw, but today padadhikari are keeping 200 to 300 Rickshaw with them .According to him 15 years have been past of working in nagar nigam but I have not seen any election among rickshaw union leaders. If they have to pay penalty such as Rs50 for the no D.L. Rickshaw puller; Rs75 for no new D.L & Rs 100 for no number plate. No case has been filled in high court, he says. Lastly he says, “Unless these people raise their voice for their right nothing can be done.”
VIEW OF RICKSHAW UNION
Salim shivalavi (Ex-President) age 55, living in Shivala, in the district of Varanasi. He is from Muslim community and was one of the head of Rickshaw union. He left his unionship before 2 years. Though he is a semi-literate person but a cultured person. He said “ there is a union named Banaras Rickshaw Union, according to him during his time there were 14 members in the union”. There are 70-80 thousand rickshaw pullers were their in Varanasi,these people have migrated from different parts of the states such as Bihar,Kolkotta,Andhra- Pradesh,Purvanchal etc. There are about 14 stand of Rickshaw Pullers in Varanasi, in Sonpur,Shivpur Kazzakpura etc. The cost that is taken by the union to provide photo and medical certificate for Driving License is Rs.10 from which Rs.2 is saved by the union. They have their own photographer and doctors so that they do not go out side and pay more. He opines that the Rikshaw pullar face a lot of problem in making license because Nagar Nigam does not allow them to make their license unless they come with their union leader. The criterion, which is required to make license that is physical fitness, 3-year experience, eyes and heart must be normal. The Rickshaw owners provide shelter to them but not other facilities such as food, medical care etc. Salim said, “He had heard some of the schemes that has come such as “Nehru Rozgar Yojana”, “Garibi Rikshaw chalko ko Aamir Banao” but this remained in pen and paper. Nagar Nigam has a rule that one man can keep only 5 rickshaws, but now days one man is keeping more than 200 rickshaw with him, says Salim, all this are possible because if the family member of the owner is 40 then each will posses 5 rickshaw that result in 200 rickshaws with one persons. So like this if the rickshaw owner is getting Rs.20 from one rickshaw puller then his income becomes Rs.4000 per day. When a rickshaw puller is caught without license by the Nagar Nigam (who roam in civil dress near rickshaw stand) then they charge Rs.200 as punishment and for number plate Rs.500. Lastly, he concluded with the words that God will never forgive them those who torture these poor and innocent rickshaw puller by taking money from them in order to fill up there sin stomach So, I, want some one like Dr.Lenin who will fight for this voice less rickshaw puller.
Ashok Kumar Gupta, age 50, living in Shivala in Banaras. He is a business by profession and auditor in Vanarasi Rickshaw Wan Mahasabha rickshaw union. According to him from rickshaw union started 1941, whose leader that time was Prafulla Kumar Mahanta, Chotala lal was deputy minister, Mahesh Kumar Gupta was PRO (public relation officer), Now Ram ji is the Director and Jay Kumar &Sanjay Keseri is the deputy minister and Musafer is the PRO .He says that there are about 17 member in there union. According to him 40-thousand rickshaw puller are in Varanasi and he is the owner of 40 rickshaws. He has provided them only shelter, nothing else. He said that from our union we provide Rs 500 for accident and Rs. 1000 for death to the rickshaw pullers. Ashok Kumar opines, “There are 40,000 rickshaw pullers mostly of 21 years of age. About 250 centers are in different parts of Banaras. Centers are in Shivala, Rajghat, Kazakpura, Lanka, Nagma, Shivpur. Mainly the Rickshaw pullers have come from Bihar, west-Bengal etc. monthly meetings are held on the 11th day of the month were different problems are discussed in the meeting such as regarding tax of rickshaw pullers, health and shelter facilities for them. We have solved many problems, he says. In the meeting when any decision is taken some of them oppose the decision but later they agree. He says like in a family there are certain conflict and then it is solved slowly, it is also in our case. Basically, they have raised their voice against the increase of tax from Rs.50 to Rs.150, for which they had appealed to High Court just 5 years later and the case is still going on but no step has been carried out by Nagar nigam but High Court had already sanctioned it. For the migrated rickshaw pullers they provide shelter. About 200/300 rickshaws pullers are staying in the garage some also cook food for their own. Those who do not want to live in the Garages they reside near the Railway tracks, footpaths, and other un-used land, some them give rent for staying in those areas. He said in a little angry voice that, Why should we provide any facility for their family members its their responsibilities. Rickshaw owners take Rs.25 from rickshaw pullers as rental charge for new rickshaw and Rs.20 for old rickshaws. They take Rs.9 from them for photo and medical certificate for Driving License. Nagarnigam makes both driving license and life insurance of rickshaw pullers. For life insurance they take Rs 5 from rickshaw pullers, Rs10 from union and Rs15 from government. When a rickshaw puller is caught by the Nagar nigam then they take Rs200. Ashok Gupta says that Nagarnigam has provided Life insurance to 5 rickshaw pullers that too only Rs.5000 but for life insurance Rs.10,000 must be provided to them. They have faced lots of problem in getting insurance from them for which conflict also arises among them. Mostly problems, which are discussed in the meeting, are related to the tax increase, i.e Rs. 50 to Rs.150, shelter of Rickshaw pullers etc. For this they had filed a case 5 years before in Supreme Court, though this case was successful but this is not been carried out in the city, Nagarnigam is still taking Rs.150 every year. Ashok Kumar replies that there is no such schemes that government has made for Rickshaw pullers. They had always fought for the well-being of the Rickshaw pullers for this they had made Rallies, stricks (Dharana) in front of Nagarnigam with their demands i.e Shelter for Migrated Rickshaw pullers, health related problems, education of the children. He said, “From our Union we have given Rs.150,000 to the Prime Minister to the families who have lost everything in the devastating Tsunami.
Sanjay Keseri, age 35, living in Prahallad Ghat, according to him the name of their union Banaras Rickshaw wan Mahasabha started in 1953. The structure of the union has been divided into 4 parts that is 11 (Padadhikari) 15(employees) 5(mantries rest 5 members are Rickshaw pullers. One has to give Re1 to the union for the membership .He said that about 14,000 Rickshaw pullers are in Banaras.For making licenses they take Rs.12 for them. During severe accident of a Rickshaw puller they give Rs 500 otherwise they call meeting in the union. While in case of death or disability they give Rs1000 to Rickshaw puller. The most important issues on which meeting is being carried is related to the making of new driving licenses every year, they are also demanding for Rickshaw pullers stand s where other fellow have captured forcibly .He said that t about 20-22 stands have been provided by the Nagar nigam to the Rickshaw pullers. The demand of the union to the Nagar nigam is that “ We are paying tax to you what you are doing for us, the answer that comes from Nagar nigam is that we have provided you road, light etc”. They have raised voice against the increase of tax Rs.50-150 for this they have filed a case in High Court about 5 years before. Sanjay says suppose a Rickshaw puller is caught by Nager Nigam then he has to pay Rs 160,incase there is no number plate in the Rickshaw, a challan is made on him on respective missing element such as D.L, New D.L of the year, without number plate this money is later paid by Rickshaw puller per day installment.. When question was asked that what are the facilities given by you to the families of Rickshaw pullers then he answered with a smile that what could we do in only Rs 22. He said that there are no such Government schemes but few years later Nagarnigam were providing tyres to the Rickshaw pullers. Lastly he suggested that there must be permanent stands for Rickshaw pullers and other facilities like light, road etc.
View of Rickshaw pullers
During early periods there was no means of communication or transportation man used to communicate with different signs, symbols and sounds and they covered distance by foot. Mostly they led a nomadic life so they roam from one place to another in search for food. As time passed man learn to make fire, through which they were able to keep themselves protected from dangerous species, they could cook food etc. Agriculture became their main occupation, for this they need some source to sell their products to distance places, then they invented wheel through which they made bullock carts for transportation of goods and services. Slowly and gradually different civilization created certain impact on the people and its society. But the cheap means of transportation was still in its way. Though modernization has touched the feet of the society, with most sophisticated vehicles, but the maximum percentage of transport is done through foot, cycles, rickshaws, tongas, etc. So, we have to make process to develop the cheapest means of transportation like rickshaws, tongas and cycles etc. Now you can actually feel pain and misery of the rickshaw pullers who have themselves given their heartiest opinion below……..
Ismail age 50, he has migrated from west Bengal but now he is living in Baghwanala He is semiliterate. He is living with his 4 children and wife. He was first pulling his rickshaw in Delhi, but due to shelter problem and up-down roads in Delhi due to which he came to Banaras His mother tongue is Bengali.He has been pulling Rickshaw for 32 years his owner name is Sanjay Sahoo living in Pandepur his behavior is quite normal. His wife and children are working as rag pickers and getting Rs50-100 per day. His actual occupation is farming but for more income he left his home land. He has paid Rs 45 for his licenses and makes new license every year by giving same amount that is Rs.45. Every day he gives his owner Rs 25 as a rent even if he run his rickshaw for 1 hour in a day .If he falls ill for 2-4 days then there will be no income on these days. Some of his bad habits is smoking, gutkha etc for this he spend Rs 500 per month. When he came to Banaras he first stayed near Kajakpura, but he was thrown out from their later he came to Baghwanala. Now they’re living their life like as nomadic. Ismail says “when we stand near the chhacks, Galies or chourah then the police beat us without any cause they even use slag words to us. Sometime the passenger don’t give us money rather they say go away from here other wise I, will beat you, at this time the police doesn’t listen to them .If any Rickshaw puller is caught by Nagar nigam and send to Jail then at this time the owner goes and bring the Rickshaw by giving the police Rs 150 –250 as charge and bring the Rickshaw out. when he faces any illness for treatment he goes to Govt hospital no facilities is provided to them due to this reason he has to go to private hospital even if he has less money His per day income is Rs70-80 and per month his income is Rs 2000/- his wife gets Rs 40 and even some time Rs100 by picking plastic etc . He suggested that if government will provide little bit land to them so that they will settle here rather going to their own home monthly or yearly. Another important thing is that Rickshaw puller want police protection not police torture, if we are harmed by any person so it is the duty of the police that gives us protection but police is itself torturing us, then to whom we will say.
Dhanraj Rabidas age 25 ,caste SC .He has migrated from Gaya district (Tikiri) but now he is living in kasi station He is an illiterate. His family is living in tikira(4 children,4 sisters & his wife), his children are studying in school .His actual occupation is farming ( he grows crops like wheat, rice) but he left his home land due to draught in the village were all his crops were destroyed .His mother tongue is Bihari he has been pulling Rickshaw for 2 years his owner name is Mithai lal, living in kasi station, his behavior is normal but he losses his temper and beats him, when some problem is found in his Rickshaws. He never ever helps him during his need time .He has paid Rs 45 for his licenses . Every day he gives his owner Rs 20 as a rent even if he run his rickshaw for 1 hour in a day. Dhanraj says that when any major problem is found in rickshaw then his owner looks after it but, other thing are handled by me .If I am caught with the Rickshaw by Nagar nigam and send to Jail then at this time the owner goes and bring the Rickshaw by giving the police Rs 150 –250 as charge and bring the Rickshaw out. When he faced any illness for his treatment he goes to Govt hospital ,but no facilities is being provided to him, due to this reason he has to go to private hospital even if he has less money His per day income is Rs100 and per month his income is Rs 3000/- .He gives all his money to his owner as no one is here to keep his money .Some of his bad habits is smoking ,gutkha etc for this he spend Rs 500 per month . He suggested that if there is a good union among the rickshaw pullers then their problem might be solved.
Sahid Ajur ali age 70, caste OBC.He is living in Shivala He is an illiterate . He is living in Banaras with his 3 children and 2nd wife his children are studying but now they are having there own business of embroidery , earning Rs3000/-per month .As his parents had died at his childhood days so, he choose this occupation , at the age of 14years . His mother tongue is Urdu .He had been pulling Rickshaw for 50 years. Sayad says, that during this time he used to cover 20 km in 4 hours. He was very much torture by the police and even by the passenger who use slag words to him. Sometime the passenger don’t give me money rather they say go away from here. As he was a very strong person so he use to run rickshaw very fast and in a very lesser period of time for which he used to get Rs. 100,200.. like that per day .He is a very good Rickshaw racer for this he had got first prize . This racing held in the Bananas every year. One of his biggest bad habit is gambling in with he spends unlimited money per month. Lastly, he pray to Allah that the pain suffering ,loneliness that he had faced, he does not want any one to face like that.
.
sankar age 40, caste OBC. He is living in Baghwanala. He is an illiterate . His is living in Banaras with his 4 children and wife.His 3 children are studying but 1 child is working in cycle garage. His mother tongue is Hindi. His main occupation is weaving, but when he lost this job he choose Rickshaw pulling as a profession . He has been pulling Rickshaw for 18 years. He had paid Rs 45 for his license. His owner name is Bablu sonkar ,he is living in Hukul ganj Varanasi. ,his owner helps him during his necessary time by giving him Rs 50-100 as remedy. He is very much tortured by the police and even by the passenger . Sometime the passenger don’t give him money rather they say go away from here other wise I, will beat you, at this time the police doesn’t listen to them . Once he was caught by the Nagar nigam and send to Jail then at this time the owner went and brought the Rickshaw by giving the police Rs 150 –250 as charge but not him His per day income is Rs65. Some of his bad habits is that, he is a Drunker, smoker, bettle eater for this he spend Rs.800 per month Lastly he suggested that if he will have his own rickshaw then he can earn his income according to his will not his owners .
.
Rajnath Benbansi age 42, caste SC.He has migrated from Lauka. Now he is living in Pandeypur,Varanasi .He is an illiterate. He is living with his family in Banaras with his 6 children(5 daughter and 1 son) and wife. His wife is working in different houses as servant His mother tongue is Hindi. He does not have any specific owner. His owner never helps him during his necessary time. According to him there are about 20Lakhs. Rickshaw pullers in Varanasi. His owner’s behavior is good towards him. His per day income is Rs.60, other source of income is that he plays musical instrument in marriage parties. He has paid Rs 42 for his licenses. Sometime the passenger doesn’t give us money rather they say go away from here. Some of his bad habits is that he is a bettle eater and drinks tea etc for this he spend Rs.500 per month. The most painful moment is still going in his life that is , his only son Gopal,18 years of age met an severe accident and lost his 2 legs for this lots of money has been spend for his treatment, but he requires Rs50,000 for his operation as except rickshaw pulling does not have big source to spend money for his poor son. I have not faced any serious problem with police and Nagar nigam but whenever I, was caught by the Nagar nigam I, used to give Rs 10 to Rs25 to them and then they live me. Lastly, he suggested that if he will have his own rickshaw then he can earn his income according to his own will not his owners and he can also give his rickshaw to others as rent to earn more money. He opines that in Varanasi no rickshaw union can be made as most of the rickshaw pullers are migrated from other states, when there work is finished they just go away to their own home land.
Suggestion;
The most important think in human life is to get respect from everybody in the society ,their must not be any difference in feeling among each other in relation to (wealth, education, name and fame, physical power, caste, sex, religion) etc. All must be equal in front of law (police, especially political leaders). All rickshaw pullers must be given an identity (uniform, credit cards etc) to hold their dignity in society. Police protection must been given to them so that during emergency situation they can take the help of the police without any fear.
If rickshaw pullers will have their own rickshaw then their will be no tension in giving Rs.20-25 as rent to the owner everyday, they can save this money in their own account for their future prospective. Those rickshaw pullers are living alone and do not have any relationship with any one in the new city they must be provided some facilities were they can keep their money and other important things in safe and security.
As agriculture is the main occupation of almost all the rickshaw pullers so they have to return to their homeland monthly or yearly, for this if they will earn and save excessive money in the city. So, that when they will return from their village they may not face any financial crises.
The basic thing is that to provide permanent shelter to the migrated rickshaw pullers and their families so that they may not lead a nomadic life.
Their must be an efficient and faithful union(elected among the rickshaw pullers) who would guide these people in perfect way so that they can individually come forward to rise their voice against the violation of their rights.
All the government schemes which are mostly coming for the welfare of the rickshaw pullers must be seen by the union that it is properly implemented.
The rickshaws must be built in a more modernized way so that it may reach to the required place in a very short period of time with less effort, so that both time and energy can be saved, this left out time can be utilize to provide them some recreational activities such watching T.V, listening to radio, playing indoor games, meditation for relaxation from any kind of tensions.
As so, many companies are spending crores of rupees in launching new cars, motor cycles in the markets which are not only creating pollution in the city but also wasting the most non-renewable resources like petrol, diesel etc. this money can be used for making more new and luxury rickshaws where their is no chance of pollution and wastage of resources. Such kind of rickshaw will specially attract the tourists who are coming from different parts of the world to visit the holy city of Varanasi. This will add to our national economic of our country. It will also increase our pride and many foreign countries may also buy such rickshaws to their native place, so that we can also start our Rickshaw export business to the outside world.
As Rickshaw pullers are mostly illiterate so they are being cheated in this so called educated society so they must have the basic knowledge of calculation, they should know their own rights and duties, health related information for them and their families for their own benefits.
Subsidies must be given to these rickshaw pullers to start any kind of small based business, in connection to their profession.
Free health facilities, education to their children must be provided to them.
Findings:
Most of the Rickshaw puller are migrated from Bihar, WestBengal, Jharkhand, North - east etc.
The Rickshaw puller have left their own home land and run Rickshaw in other states to keep their dignity in front of their relatives.
Mostly Rickshaw puller have their own Agricultural land where they grow crops like Wheat ,rice, maize etc during the agricultural season they go back to their home without bothering about their jobs .When they return neither they have the same owner nor the same Rickshaw ,So, they again search some other owner for their lively hood .
As these people don’t have any permanent place so, they give their entire income to their owner at need time they take this money.
During their emergency period though owner helps in by providing money but he takes away this money as interest {per day}
When a Rickshaw puller meets with an accident the owner doesn’t pay any sympathy to him neither he pays for any medical facilities nor he takes any responsibility in repairing Rickshaw .During such situation police don’t help them.
Almost all the Rickshaw owner have their own Garage, mechanical shops where new Rickshaw are made .They have about 200-300 Rickshaw with them which is against the rule of Nagar Nigam (1 man 5 Rickshaws ).
Many Rickshaw pullers don’t know about the of Rickshaw union .They only know about their own owner ,whom they thing Avatar .
Only the powerful owners of Rickshaw holds the position in the union as union leaders .
As most of the Rickshaw puller are migrated so either they have to live in the garages of the owner or in some other places of varanasi for which they had to pay Rs200-400 to the owners as rent .
Unless these Rickshaw pullers raise their voice for their own right one can not thing a single inch of development among these people .For this a strong union is required who would fight for the well being /welfare /progress and prosperity of these innocent fellows .
CONCLUSION
Lastly we could conclude that in Banaras the status of Rickshaw pullers is miserable .One can visualize the situation by seeing that in what condition this people are staying. They have no permanent place where they can sleep peacefully .They sleep in foot path ,railway station, and even some sleep near drains or in the Rickshaw itself. As they have to apply more physical strength so their health is being deteriorated day by day. Almost all Rickshaw pullers have a bad habit of taking alcohols,.drugs,bidis,bettles,gutkasetc, they think that these things will provide them energy in carrying out their work. .As a human beings every person has their own dreams to be fulfilled but these dreamless people who even don’t get a square day meal, how they can thing of their better future .The only thing they apply in their life is “Hand to Mouth system”.
BY -ANISHA MITRA
&
KIRAN BALA MAJHI
Annexure:
INTERVIEW SCHEDLED OF RICKSHAW PULLER
1 NAME OF THE RICKSHAW PULLER –
2 AGE - 10 -20 22-30
32 – 40 42- 60
62 –ABOVE
3. SEX – MALE - FEMALE-
4.CASTE –
· GENERAL
· SC
· ST
· OBC
5. MARITAL STATUS:
· MARRIED –
· UN-MARRIED –
6. PLACE -
· MIGRATED -
· LIVING NOW-
7. EDUCATION -
· ILLITERATE
· SEMI - LITERATE
· LITERATE
FAMLILY BACKGROUND
8. TYPE OF FAMILY -
· NUCLEAR
· JOINT
9. NUMBER OF FAMILY MEMBER –
10. NUMBER OF CHILDERN YOU HAVE –
11. WHEATHER THEY ARE STUDYING -
· YES
· NO
IF YES, THEN WHERE..
IF NO, TH EN WHY………..
12. WHEATHER YOUR WIFE IS A HOUSE WIFE ?
· YES
· NO
IF NO, IS SHE DOING SOME WORK, THEN WHAT IS THAT?
13. OCCUPATION -
14. WHY YOU LEFT YOUR OWN HOMELAND? -(SPECIFY)GIVE REASON
· WHAT YOU WERE DOING BEFORE YOU CAME TO VANARASH
· WHAT WAS YOUR INCOME THAT TIME
15. WHAT IS YOUR MOTHER TONGUE?
· BIHARI
· BENGALI
· ANY OTHER -(SPECIFY)
16. DO YOU KNOW HOW MANY RICKSHAW PULLERS ARE IN VARAVASI?
17. HOW MANY YEARS YOU HAVE BEEN PULLING THE RICKSHAW ?
2 – 5 YEARS 6 –10 YEARS
11 – 17 YEARS 18 – 24 YEARS
30 – ABOVE
18. NAME OF THE RICKSHAW OWNER?
19. WHERE HE IS LIVING NOW?
20. IS HIS BEHAVIOUR GOOD TO YOU?
· TO NOMINAL EXTEND
· TO SOME EXTEND
· TO VERY GOOD EXTEND
21 .DOES HE HELPS YOU IN YOUR NECESSARY TIME ?
· YES
· NO
IF YES, THEN HOW
22. IS HIS BEHAVIOUR GOOD TOWARDS YOU?
· YES
· NO
IF YES, THEN HOW ……
23 DO YOU HAVE DRIVING LINCENCE
· YES..
· NO
IF YES, THEN HOW MUCH YOU PAY FOR THAT?
IF NO, THEN WHAT TYPE OF PROBLEM YOU FACED?
24. DO YOU RENEW THIS CARD?
· YES
· NO
IF YES, THEN HOW MUCH YOU PAY FOR THAT?
DATE OF THE VALIDICTION OF THE CARD?
PROBLEM
25. WHEN YOU CAME TO VANARASI WHAT TYPE OF PROBLEM YOU FACED?
· COMMUNICATION FACILITY
· LANGUAGE
· LOCATION
· ANY OTHER –(SPECIFY)
26. WHAT ARE THE PROBLEMS YOU FACE DAY TO DAY?
· POLICE
· PASSENGER
· OWNER
· ANY OTHER (SPECIFY)
DURING ANY EMERGENCY, WHAT YOU DO?
· CALL THE POLICE
· CALL YOUR RICKSHAW OWNER
· YOU MANAGE YOUR SELF
· DO NOT REACT TO IT
HAVE YOU KNOW THE SCHEMES WHICH ARE BEING PROVIDED BY
YOUR NAGARNIGAM OR GOVT?
· TO NOMINAL EXTENT
· TO SOME EXTENT
· DOES NOT KNOW AT ALL
29. WHAT TYPE OF PROBLEM YOU FACED
· SOCIAL
· ECONOMIC
· CULTURAL
· ANY OTHER SPECIFY
INCOME –
30. PER DAY -
31 PER MONTH
32. ANY OTHER SOURCE OF INCOME
· FAMILY MEMBER
· WIFE
· CHILDREN
33. WHERE YOU KEEP YOUR MONEY?
· IN YOUR OWN BANK
· WITH YOUR OWNER
· IN YOUR HOME
· ANY OTHER SPECIFY
34.DO YOU HAVE ANY BAD HABITS?
· YES
· NO
IF YES, THEN WHAT IS THAT
35. HOW MUCH YOU SPEND FOR THAT?
· PER DAY
· PER MONTH
36. DO YOU KNOW HOW MUCH RICKSHAW DOES YOUR OWNER HAVE?
· YES
· NO
IF YES, THEN HOW MUCH ……
37. DON’T YOU THING THAT THERE SHOULD BE A STRONG UNION
AMONG YOU
· YES
· NO
38. DO YOU KNOW THAT THERE IS A UNION OF RICKSHAW PULLER S
· YES
· NO
IF YES, THEN WHAT IS ITS NAME..
CULTURAL
39. WHAT TYPE OF ENTERTAINMENT, DO YOU LIKE MOST?
· FILM
· TV
· LISTENING RADIO
· ANY OTHER - SPECIFY
40. HOW YOU SPENT YOUR FESTIVAL?
· TOGETHER
· ALONE
· IN YOUR FAMILY
41.WHAT ARE HIS RESOURCES?
· SOCIAL
· ECONOMIC
41. SUGGESTION FROM YOU FOR YOUR BETTER LIFE?
……………………………………………………………………………………………….
During early periods their was no means of communication or transportation man used to communicate with different signs, symbols and sounds and they covered distance by foot. Mostly they led a nomadic life so they roam from one place to another in search for food. As time passed man learn to make fire, through which they were able to keep themselves protected from dangerous species, they could cook food etc. Agriculture became their main occupation, for this they need some source to sell their products to distance places, then they invented wheel through which they made bullock carts for transportation of goods and services. Slowly and gradually different civilization created certain impact on the people and its society. But the cheap means of transportation was still in its way. Though modernization has touched the feet of the society, but one can find most sophisticated vehicles, but the percentage of transport is through foot, cycles, rickshaws, tongas, etc. So, we have to make process to develop the most cheapest means of transportation like three pullers.
During early periods their was no means of communication or transportation man used to communicate with different signs, symbols and sounds and they covered distance by foot. Mostly they led a nomadic life so they roam from one place to another in search for food. As time passed man learn to make fire, through which they were able to keep themselves protected from dangerous species, they could cook food etc. Agriculture became their main occupation, for this they need some source to sell their products to distance places, then they invented wheel through which they made bullock carts for transportation of goods and services. Slowly and gradually different civilization created certain impact on the people and its society. But the cheap means of transportation was still in its way. Though modernization has touched the feet of the society, but one can find most sophisticated vehicles, but the percentage of transport is through foot, cycles, rickshaws, tongas, etc. So, we have to make process to develop the most cheapest means of transportation like three pullers
View of Rickshaw pullers
Ismail age 50 he has migrated from west Bengal but now he is living in Baganala He is semiliterate living with his 4 children and wife his children are not Banaras he was riding his rickshaw in Delhi but due to shelter problem he come to Banaras .his mother tongue is Bengali he has been pulling Rickshaw for 32 years his owner name is sanjay sahoo living in pandepur his behavior is quite normal but studying because they are working with their mother as rag pickers .
Ismail age 50 he has migrated from west Bengal but now he is living in Baganala He is semiliterate living with his 4 children and wife his children are not Banaras he was riding his rickshaw in Delhi but due to shelter problem he come to Banaras .his mother tongue is Bengali he has been pulling Rickshaw for 32 years his owner name is sanjay sahoo living in pandepur his behavior is quite normal but studying because they are working with their mother as rag pickers His actual occupation is farming but for more income he left his home land before coming to does not help during his need time ,he has paid Rs 45 for his licenses . Every day he gives his owner Rs 25 as a rent even if he run his rickshaw for 1 hour in a day .if he fells ill for 2-4 days then no income will be on these days. some of his bad habits is smoking ,gutkha etc for this he spend Rs 500 per month When he came to Banaras and stayed near Kajakpura but he was thrown out from their later he came to Baganala . Now they’re living their life like nomadic. Ismail says that when we stand near the chhacks, Galies or chourah then the police beat us without any cause they even use slag words to us. Sometime the passenger don’t give us money rather they say go away from here other wise I, will beat you, at this time the police doesn’t listen to them .If any Rickshaw puller is caught by Nagar nigam and send to Jail then at this time the owner goes and bring the Rickshaw by giving the police Rs 150 –250 as charge and bring the
posted by orissa at 3:43 AM 0 comments
Monday, October 16, 2006
Message of PVCHR and AHRC on World food Day
Dear Friends,
Greetings from PVCHR, AHRC, VOP Varanasi sub-region and right to food campaign, UP.
We are giving the revolutionary greetings to you on the occasion of International food security day.
The People's Tribunal on Right to Food [hereinafter referred to as 'the tribunal'] was initiated by the People's Vigilance Committee for Human Rights (PVCHR), which is based in Varanasi, in cooperation with the Asian Human Rights Commission (AHRC), a regional human rights organisation based in Hong Kong and Action Aid International-India,LRO. The tribunal was held on 30 September 2005 and on October 1 2006 some of the tribunal members also visited affected villages.
Analysis:
The cases that came before the tribunal spoke how the government has neglected the starving of Uttar Pradesh. Villagers have not received wages after participating in food-for-work schemes, and records are made up by government bureaucrats to give a false impression of the schemes' functioning. The public distribution system closes for months at a time. Before venturing further the tribunal would like to make a few additional preliminary observations. 1) All the victims who deposed before the tribunal were from the poor sections of the society of which many were from the lower caste in the caste Hindu society 2) In all cases the victims have complained to the authorities responsible for administration regarding the issues they face. 3) In all cases the response from the responsible authorities were none or to the minimum which according to this tribunal is a criminal neglect of their duty for which the responsible officers must be punished in accordance with the law of the country India is a food-rich state. However, it is beyond the capacity of reasonable comprehension why in such a state a select group of persons suffer from acute malnutrition and some die from starvation? To ensure food security through proper distribution of food grains there are mechanisms like the Public Distribution Shops functioning under the Civil Supplies Department. All that is required is to ensure that the food grains intended to be distributed through these shops are distributed. Offenders must be booked and brought before courts under the Essential Commodities Act. This one hand being a purely administrative aspect is also one reflecting upon the policing system in India. The tribunal cannot ignore the fact that there is a clear nexus between those who enjoy power like the case of Mr. Rajendra Tiwari and his village management and the police responsible for maintaining law and order in the area. This has also a direct bearing upon the caste system which is followed meticulously in the region. Any discrimination based on caste is an offense under law. So also bonded labour is prohibited by law. However, both require better policing. Complaints as highlighted by the victims in their deposition before the tribunal speak volumes about the policing in the state. It also is an indicator of how far the supervisory control over the police is exercised by the state authorities. In this context the tribunal would like to express our concern about the Superintendent of Police of Varanasi district and Sonebhadra district. The tribunal also wishes to express concern about the District Collectors / Executive Magistrates of these districts. The tribunal is of the opinion that had four officers - Superintendent of Police of Varanasi district and Sonebhadra district and the District Collectors / Executive Magistrates of these districts - were prudent enough in discharge of their duties it would have prevented at least a few deaths from starvation and would prevent further cases of starvation deaths in their respective jurisdictions.
Recommendations to the State Government of Uttar Pradesh: 1) The government must immediately look into the aspect of the functioning of the PDS shops in the state, particularly in Sonebhadra and Varanasi districts 2) The government must consider taking immediate actions by calling for reports of the respective district administration of Varanasi and Sonebhadra regarding recorded complaints of food scarcity and lack of proper distribution of rationed articles 3) The police officers in these two districts must be immediately made answerable to why they have not initiated any action against corrupt PDS shop licensees in spite of the fact that complaints were filed with them regarding the malfunctioning of certain PDS shops 4) The government must also take immediate steps so that cases are registered against those who are found to breach the Essential Commodities Act and also to revoke the licenses of those licensees who have violated the provisions of the Act 5) The government must with immediate effect and also with the help of non governmental agencies working right to food to map out those who need immediate assistance regarding right to food and provide steps so that free ration and food for work programme is implemented without failure in Varanasi and Sonebhadra districts Recommendations to the Union Central Government: 1) The government must ensure that the welfare programmes initiated by the Union Government does not fail in implementation at the state level 2) To ensue actual implementation of the Union Government's schemes it must also ensure that complaints from victims are attended to though appropriate government agencies overriding – if necessary – the state priority or alternatively pressuring the Uttar Pradesh state government to implement the welfare schemes without failure 3) The government must support the initiatives of the Apex Court in addressing the issue of food security rather than playing often a passive role
Cases
A detailed status report is prepared by a PVCHR.PVCHR and Bunkar Dastkar Adhikar Manch published the booklet “Voice of Voiceless weavers”- an open latter to policy makes and legislature, which is highlighted and used the survey of JMN activists related the malnutrition and its grading at Shivrampur and Baghawanala..
In Shivrampur, for the first time in the state, a Panchyat committee was formed on malnutrition. The committee sanctioned Rs.1000 to two children suffering from malnutrition- whose case was proactively taken up by JMN.
The state rule passed in 2004 was first implemented in Kushinagar dist., but Panchyat committee was not formed.
The achievement in Shivrampur had the ripple effect- Chandauli dist., where Panchayat committee is getting formed.
Since most of the malnutrition cases come from landless families, demand for land is vigorously taken up. A writ in High court is under process.
v The list of malnourished children was submitted to the CDO on May 2, 2006, who had written to the PO (ICDS) to investigate the matter. Demand by JMN activists regarding why the Supreme Court order of opening anganwadi kendras in dalit tolas is not been observed in Belwa and to carry out action.
v Malnutrition is matter of great concern for us, specially the children of 0-5 years of age groups. To create a wide debate and discussion which has resulted into a reformative and substantial change in the health of many children. There were already two Aganbandi operating in the village. Now there are three Aganbandi operating from the Panchayat Bhawan in Shvirampur.
After the starvation death of Seema Mushar of Belwa, the issue due to hunger alert, open letter and statement becomes a center stage issue among the administrative officials, which resulted into a frequent visit of the officials in many of the Mushar slums. Issue of land and distribution of ponds to Musahar became the center issue in Belwa. ICDS center sanctioned for musahar tola of Belwa, but not open at till date. District administration formulated the comprehensive plan of action for the development and welfare of Musahar of district Varanasi. Rs. 647lacs Scheme for 3613 Musahar families of this purpose forwarded to state Government and planning commission of India. Times of India and Agenda published about hunger and malnutrition situation of Musahar in Belwa.
The community is moving towards PHC in the cases of disease and malnutrition. It has become a big issue by which the administration is under pressure at Belwa.
JMN staff filed RTI on malnutrition situation of Musahar Toal of Belwa. Tehsildar informed that a team of doctors formed aaat PHC exclusive for diseases related to malnutrition of Musahar Tola of Belwa.
JMN and PVCHR filed a petition to NHRC and secretary of Mahila Evam Vikas Vibhag of UP Government.NHRC issued two notice for hunger death of Muneeb and Seema Musahar (case no. 41875/24/2005-2006 &15726/24/2006-2007 respectively) and under secretary of Mahila and bal vikas department visited Belwa and made the enquiry. Latest development of anti-malnutrition campaign of PVCHR, VOP and JMN that UNICEF opened first technical center of the state on Malnutrition in Varanasi which is situated at Deen Dayal Hospital.
12 Musahar people got the work of nine days under the food for work scheme. In which, they received full wages as Rs.23 plus five KGs. Rice ( in total 58 Rs.) .
v Activists forwarded the petition about malnutrition situation in Baghawanala and visit of Ms.Syeda Hameed,member of Planning Commission leads into opening of ICDS center.
v Two days protest against the malnutrition of children and issue of livelihood and health at Baghawanala and Nakhi ghat under the banner of VOP on 28-29 August 2006.JMN and VISION activists participated in very active manner.
v A public hearing was conducted on 1 June 06 at district Head quarter of Varanasi, which brought forth the fact that most of the malnutritioned; children belong to the landless families. Following demands were made through the public hearing-
1. An emergency grant of Rs 1,000/- should be provided to the victim families.
2. A Panchayat Samiti should be constituted for providing emergency assistance to the families where malnutrition and starvation death occur.
3. Aanganbadi should be established among the community of Nut, Mushar Belwa and in the Badepur tola.
4. PHC should be activated to alleviate malnutrition and ANM should be motivated to distribute the drop of vitamin ‘A’ among the community properly.
5. Demand for justice in the case of Muneeb death by the proper execution of law.
6. Agricultural land should be allotted to landless Nut, Mushar, Bhar, Patel, Musalman and Prajapati.
7. Through the strategy prepared over the employment Guarantee Act, everyone should be provided employment.
8. Preference should be given to malnutrition suffering families in providing Red Card.
Hunger death in Belwa and struggle:
v A nine-month-old girl child Seema Musahar of Belwa, Varanasi died due to hunger on 28 July.06.
v It is necessary to note it out that the mother of dead child Smt. Laxmina had already urged to the local administration for emergency assistance as per the order of chief secretary of UP in 2005. In between that Laxmina admitted her child in a govt. hospital by pawning her saree to her neighbour on 1000 Rs/- where her treatment got interrupted due to lack of money. The administration was seen uninterested into her matter and Laxmina could not succeed in getting her child alive. The administration got aware of her death on 31.07.06 whereas AHRC issued Hunger Alert at 1:30pm on 28.July06. On the same day Supply Inspector of Food Department visited Musahar community & made a list of all those who do not have ration card. He assured the community providing cards as early as possible.
v On 29.07.06 one more case of malnutrition of a child came into light when mother of dead child Smt. Laxmina made a complaint against it. Her child is suffering from 3rd grade of malnutrition.
v On 1.08.06 A.D.M. (administration) visited Belwa village with Basant Ram Prajapati. During his visit B.D.O. Badagaon, superintendent of PHC & Gram Pradhan were also present there. ADM asked for the situation of ration card & talked to each one whether they were ration cardholder or not. During his conversation with the villagers, Gram Pradhan Rajendra Tiwari tried to put some arguments against Musahars but he was opposed by the ADM & suggested to think fairly.
v On 2.08.06 total five families of Belwa issued red card by BDO & the fact is that between the two families one of them was of dead Seema’s family and the other one is most recently (29.06.06) died child family.
v On 3.07.06 BDO of Badagaon shared a plan for a work, which could involve most of the villagers in getting wage. The plan implemented in the form of digging drain for village. On first day 8 women & 6 men were joined & the work continued for next 7 days. The workers got regular wages & grains for their work.
v Also BDO made a list of musahars who need Awas from Indira Awas Yojna.
v Today ADM, SDM visited Belwa, they promised for land and allotment of pond to the Musahars.
v DM forwarded a comprehensive scheme for 3613 families of Musahar , Varanasi that includes the Indira awas, sanitation, hand pump, and employments for 420 musahars. The Cost of scheme is 647.47 Lacs Rupees.
v Case of Sarbari:
We are really grateful to you for being much concerned about the deprived people. This is your contribution by which a deprived family is again able to enjoy there right to live with all its basic needs.
During regular visit of the activist of PVCHR in the village Shivrampur of Harahua Block Varanasi District, they got aware of a three years old girl child Sarvari who was fighting against starvation. The child Sarvari was taken to the PHC by the activist of PVCHR for immediate check up finally her weight had been taken which confirmed that she was in 4th grade of malnourishment.
After knowing the fact Dr. Lenin on 7-9-06 informed D.M. of Varanasi about the situation through SMS and appeal for emergency assistance. On the same he send a letter by fax and then by registered post to the D.M. Varanasi in detail. As a result of which at 4.30 Pm of the same day A.D.M. Finance phoned Mrs. Shruti, activist of PVCHR and asked for the present scenario. A.D.M. at the same time told that B.D.O. Harahua and S.D.M had been sent to Shivrampur for fact finding of case of malnourishment of three years old girl child Sarvari.
Our activists then reached to the victim but they did not find them at their residence. The neighbors said that the victim’s parents were called on the residence of Block chief.
As our activists reached there they found that the B.D.O, A.D.O. and Panchayat of the Village Shivrampur had already taken a written statement of the victim’s parents that their child was weak due to fever but not due to hunger or malnutrition.
Then after the deeds of above said authorities were disclosed against D.M. Varanasi through a letter sent by Mrs. Shruti and the action were taken against the situation are as follows-
v Victim’s family was provided 1,000 rupees as an emergency assistance by S.D.M.
v Victim’s family was provided 25 Kg. Wheat for their food.
v Two uncle of the victim’s who were in crises, both were provided 25 Kg. Wheat respectiv.
v
v Along with S.D.M., A.D.O. Cooperative Manoj Singh, secretary Anil Singh were there to discuss about the problem of the community suffering with.
v There is a small village Ayer adjacent to the village Shivrampur where mostly Musahar community resides. The authorities also visited there and discussed the Musahar about their problem and finally reached at some solution to their problem.
v Checked there ration card and ordered to issue nine more cards.
v Ordered to issue widow pension for one.
v Old age pension for ten and residence for eleven.
v A villager Pappu was assured to get benefit by the National family benefited scheme as soon as possible and also provided hundred rupees by the secretary itself.
· Painfully Malnutritioned:
It is brought to your kind notice that on 28 Dec.05, it came into the knowledge of Vijay Bharti, a community fellow of PVCHR that an 8 years old minor girl Shabanam D/o Nizamuddin R/o. Vill. Shivrampur under Harhua Block in Varanasi district had been suffering from malnutrition. Instantly Vijay Bharti informed through a written document to village secretary about this case of malnutrition and demanded from him to provide Rs. 1000/- to the victim family in pursuance of UP Government order dated 22-12-04. It should be noted that taking into view the increasing incidents of malnutrition and hunger deaths, on the direction of Supreme Court, the then chief Secretary of UP Sri V.K. Mittal issued a Government order to set up an contingency fund of Rs. 1000/- at village level to avoid apprehended cases of malnutrition and hunger deaths. But it is regrettable that the instruction is not being followed by district administration. Even most of the officials pretend to be uninformed of the aforesaid Government order dated 22-12-04.
It is painful just to look at the health condition of innocent minor girl Shabanam. Her mother Haseena is suffering from cancer and it is a matter of just some days or months to pass her away. Her father is a handicap by birth but not wholly. He is able to do many kinds of physical work. Initially he was a carpet weaver but now he has lost his weaving job. At present he works as a laborer. But his earning is awfully insufficient in respect of the medical expenses of her ailing wife and to feed their children. Acting swiftly upon it, Dr. Lenin took painfully malnutrition girl to hospital on 2 jan,06 and she has been diagnosed with ‘Protein energy malnutrition (PEM) and rickets by the doctor. It means that this minor girl, whose physical appearance hardly matches her age, will have minimal chances of survival if she is not given a proper diet and medical care. While the government is laying stress on nutrition and health monitoring, especially among vulnerable segments of society, the real picture is very different, particularly in rural areas of eastern Uttar Pradesh. “Hum kahaan se achcha khurak de sakte hain apne bachchon ko,” (How can I manage good food for our children), questioned Nizamuddin, who lost his carpet weaving job about five years back due to his wife, Haseena’s ill-health and various other reasons. A resident of Shivrampur village, about 10 km from the district headquarters in Harahua development Block, Nizamuddin feeds his family by doing odd jobs. He also had to mortgage his little piece of land for the treatment of his ailing wife. Today, the family was living in utter poverty.
“The present condition of the girl is a clear cut case of malnutrition,” said Dr. Arvind Singh, the state secretary of Indian Medical Association (IMA), adding that such cases of malnutrition in this age was also a shame to society. The gram pradhan, Sheela Devi and the Gram Panchayat committee have also declared the girl to be suffering from malnutrition, and sanctioned a sum of Rs. 1000 under the contingency fund for her health. The panchayatraj department of the state government has authorized the gram panchayats to provide financial assistance to the families facing starvation or malnutrition.
Even though the family has the below poverty line white card, they are not even in a position to purchase food grains regularly with this card.
Meanwhile, People’s Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR) has come forward to adopt the child for treatment and proper care. “It is not the only case of malnutrition in this region.” Said Dr. Lenin of PVCHR adding that in the past too, over 90 cases of hunger deaths had been reported to Dr. N.C. Saxena, commissioner of the Supreme Court, who in his letter (dated 05-06-05) to the UP chief secretary, had sought adequate state government action in this regard. The food schemes implemented in Varanasi, Sonebhadra, Juanpur, Kushinagar and Mirzapur district presented a grim picture, he said adding that even in the districts, from where the deaths were reported, only 31 percent of the children in the 0-6 age group had been covered under the Integrated Child Development Scheme (ICDS).
· Painful death of Muneeb Musahar pertaining to malnutrition in village Belwa of District, Varanasi.
In the village Belwa of Varanasi district.On 29th May of 2006 Muneeb Musahar son of Gulab Musahar died due to hunger and hunger oriented malnutrition. Earlier on 26th May, 2006 Muneeb was taken to primary health center, Baragaon and the doctor checked him up. In the report of doctor 3 years old Muneeb’s weight has been shown 10 Kg., which falls under second grade malnutrition based on growth chart. Before doctor’s check up, PVCHR activists had assessed Muneeb’s poor health. His family has a red ration card, which proves that even Gram Panchayat considers his family under BPL category. PVCHR activists conducted a survey of 10 children under age group of 0 to 1 in which following cases of malnutrition were detected-
The family of deceased child Muneeb falls under the category of below poverty line but in spite of that indifferent and negligent attitudes of village head, village Secretary and Lekhpal towards this family belonging to deprived community, caused painfully malnutrition death of Muneeb. These responsible persons never took trouble to make a visit in the tolas belonging to deprived communities which often face hunger and hunger oriented malnutrition deaths. In village Belwa anti Dalit attitude of village head and negligent attitudes of the concerning officials of district administration have made the situation bad to worse and there in the village frequent occurrences of malnutrition deaths of children are taking place.In this respect it would be relevant to remember that ALRC, had published the story of Bhothu Musahar, a resident of the same village in their magazine “Article 2” After prolonged and tiresome efforts, Bhothu was provided with a Red Ration Card. Nandlal of 1 year and shobhnath of 4years sons of Munna Musahar and grand sons of Bhothu Musahar of Belwa village have been suffering from third grade of malnutrition and their health conditions are deteriorating day by day. But even then village Panchayat and district administration are not ready to take into account the problems of the poor people of the village (Belwas Khas). Sahil son of Anwar is suffering from Ist Grade of malnutrition and Fiza is suffering from second Grade malnutrition. Before this, PVCHR has made complaint with NHRC in respect of malnutrition cases of children namely Roshani, Priyanka and Juli and NHRC issued notice to District Magistrate of Varanasi registering Case No. 41875/24/2005-06. After this as expected, District administration began to make torture of victims as well as human rights activists working in the village.
The above-mentioned all three children, suffering from malnutrition, were taken to primary health center Baragaon and were checked up. In their medical reports their age and weight have been given. On the basis of medical report Roshani was graded as second degree of malnutrition, Juli graded as IIIrd and Priyanka graded as Ist. In this relation, a report was published in Hindustan News paper on behalf of district administration on 14th May, 06 alleging that the aforesaid three cases of malnutrition were false and that had been created due to mutual disputes. Mohan Ram, who is Tahasildar of Pindra, conducted this enquiry on behalf of district administration. Before the publication of this report AHRC had already issued urgent hunger appeal on his website on 12 May, 06 against the aforesaid cases of malnutrition. In the urgent appeal it had been described that on the complain of Santosh, an activist of PVCHR, with NHRC and after the interference of NHRC, Mohan Ram made a visit to village Belwa and took written statements of family members of the victims forcefully in his favour and took thumb impression of those victims. This misdeed of Mohan Ram was strongly protested by Human Rights activist Santosh. Taking revenge of this, he incited district Magistrate, Varanasi to give order of arrest of Santosh on 10th May 06 at the occasion of Tahasil Day. On the other hand, Rekha, wife of Sanjay Prajapati who is mother of malnutritioned girl Priyanka has stated on oath before the chair person of NHRC that her husband was forced to give his statement in writing that neither his daughter Priyanka had been suffering from malnutrition and nor he had lodged any case in this respect. At the same time mother and maternal grandmother of malnutritioned girl Juli and Mahendra Goud father of malnutritioned child Roshani submitted their statements along with supporting affidavits before National Human Right Commission that the false reports in respect of their children good health were taken forcibly by officials on 5th May, 06. In this way please be noted that the four incidences occurred one by one as statements on oath on 5th May 06, illegal arrest of Santosh on 10th May, 06 and the incidence of taking thumb impression after the urgent appeal issued by AHRC on 12 May 06 before publishing the news of 14th May, prove that the administration is trying to hide the issues of malnutrition and pretending to take into account the hunger situation of these poor families. Smt. Shruti Nagvanshi managing trustee of PVCHR/Janmitra Nyas and a member of District food and supply advisory committee visited all the three victims families and she recorded the statements and made vediography and brought forth the issue in public by organizing a press conference. The real facs which were found after inquiry as follows –
Juli’s father, Dashmi, a resident of village kallipur, Varanasi is a handicapped and landless. Malnourished girl Juli’s mother in seventh month of her pregnancy left her father-in-law’s house kallipur for her father’s house, which lies in village Belwa and after two months there she gave birth to a girl child named Juli. After that she along with her newly born baby stayed there in village Belwa for 12 months. Juli’s maternal grandfather, Paras Patel had a white card. When Paras’s wife Shyamdei asked for the BPL Card(Red Card) from village panchayat then she was badly abused and threatened by Rajendra Tiwari to ask for a red card. Often it happens in village Belwa that if one asks for his legal rights he invites the wrath and enmity of Rajendra Tiwari. Shyamdei and Paras has two sons.Younger one is studing in class 3rd in a school run by Janmitra Nyas whereas his second son is working as a servant in a confectioner’s shop. Paras is a mason but due to his very poor health he works only for 10 days in a month.
malnutritioned child Priyanka is daughter of Sanjay Prajapati. He is landless and qualified for a BPL card but presently he has yellow. He has two sons. younger one is Sandeep studies in class VIth in a Primary school. Sanjay was selected for Indira Awas but Rajendra Tiwari himself took the money away. Rajendra Tiwari has purchased earthen pots from Sanjay which was cost 10,200/- but paid only 1,000/- to Sanjay.
There is another girl child named Roshni is suffering from malnutrition. Roshni’s father Mahendra was a sculptor in Agra but he returned home to look after his family by working in his village or in Varanasi city. He mortgaged his wife’s ornament for the treatment of his daughter suffering from malnutrition. Some more stories of malnutritioned children-
A. Jada is a nut girl whose father’s name is Jittu and the mother’s name is Rita. The girl is a victim of IInd grade of malnutrition.
B. Raju Mushar, son of Mithalu is also a victim of IInd grade malnutrition. His mother Meena prepare plates of leaves. Mithalu is engaged at a brick kiln.
C. Govinda, Son of Chanda Mushar is a victim of IIIrd grade malnutrition. His father works at a brick kiln. His family has no Ration Card.
26 years old Chamela is a widow woman and she is a resident of village Belwa. She is working as a labourer to earn her livelihood. Her daughter Jui who is two and half years old is a victim of IInd grade malnutrition. She has a Red Card. On 13th May, 06 when she met with Rajendra Tiwari and demanded 1,000/- for medical treatment of her malnutritioned child. she was badly abused by him. Rajendra Tiwari has anti Dalit and poor attitudes. He never cooperates the poor and helpless people of the village.
Health conditions of malnutritioned children of Belwa village, checked up at PHC of Badagaon Block, which as follows –
S.N. Child Name Father’ Name Mother’s Name Registration no. Age Weight Grade
1. Fiza Eqbal Hadisun 7025 4 13Kg I
2. Erphan Eqbal Hadisun 7030 3 10Kg II
3. Munib (dead) Gulab Kismati 6600 3 10Kg II
4. Monu Chandrika Mu. Patiraj Mus. 7020 2 15Kg IV
5. Santari Chhotelal Mu. Laxmina 6770 31/2 10Kg II
6. Shiva Lkhandar Mu. Bijali Mus. 6601 4 8 Kg IV
7. Mahvis Eqram Sabnam 4737 11/2 5 Kg IV
8. Suraj Rajkumar Bhar Meera Bhar 6821 4 10Kg II
9. Suman Rajkumar Bhar Meera Bhar 6829 2 6 Kg IV
10. Rajiya Aslam Esartun 6831 3 10Kg II
11. Pooja Sri Nath Bhar Rita Bhar 6828 5 10Kg III
12. Raju Mewa Bhar Munni Bhar 6832 5 10Kg III
13. Anjali Ravishankar Pat.Shila Patel 6820 3 9 Kg II
· On 27 August 2004, staff of the PVCHR visited Vatsalaya Chikitsalaya children's hospital in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh state, India and saw two Dalit children, Chandan and Malaka suffering from acute illnesses as a result of severe malnutrition. Chandan is eight-years' old, but was found to weigh a mere nine kilograms. His eyes were not opening due to a disease brought on by acute vitamin A deficiency, and the doctors examining him were uncertain about the condition of his eyes. Malaka is six and was found to be weighing eight kilograms. She was suffering from anemia, and also had an eye condition due to vitamin A deficiency. Both children have respiratory infections. The father of Chandan and Malaka, Umashankar Ram, had two years previously lost his income due to the collapse of the local textiles industry in his area. He then worked as a rickshaw puller. Although he was identified as Below Poverty Line, and issued a card by the district authorities that would entitle him to purchase rations at lower cost, he could not even afford to buy them at the discounted rate. In August, he met with his village head, Lalman Pal, and village secretary, but they did not give any help, nor inform the district administration.
Sadhna in PEM 4th grade as certified by Institute of Medical sciences and SS Hospital BHU,Varanasi: intervention of NHRC
The families from which these children belong are living on the razor edge of the survival with no land and food security as a result the children who are the state responsibility and future of are country are living on the brink of survival, suffering from acute malnutrition and hunger.
Below is the testimony of a Sadhna, 2years belonging to village Rudauli, district Mirzapur, who was suffering diagnosed to be in PEM IV Grade and suffering from Keratomalacia when admitted to the S.S.Hospital of Institute of Medical Science, BHU.The discharge record shows that at the time of discharge her PEM status was upgraded to PEMIII, but still she was suffering from Keratomalacia
Journey from death to survival
Sadhna is struggling hard to take a breath; she is reduced to a skeleton. Exposing her ribs, she finds it difficult to even lift up her small eyelids. Tumbling while walking, she becomes a little full of energy when talked about food. A four years old child can be compared to a sixty year old person, with each bone has worn-out the flesh and there are wrinkles every where. Her height can be compared to a two and a half old child. Cradling in the arms of her grandmother, Sadhna lies meek and hopeless. She is admitted to Vatsalya Hospital, Varanasi.
Her father, Vijay,a dalit weaver is unemployed since past eight months as a result of which his four years old daughter Sadhna is suffering from severe malnutrition and Anemia. Helplessly Vijay send his wife and four years old daughter to his in-laws house at Rassipatti,Varanasi. But the condition of his in-laws is no better as a result of which Sadhna had become severely malnourished and anemic .She lies at the brink of survival. To save the life of his niece took her to Dr.Rajendra Pathak for her treatment that referred her to Sir Sundarlal Hospital. He told that since months the child has not been receiving proper food as a result of which she has become anemic and needs blood. She was admitted in the hospital on 23/9/04,where she was diagnosed to be suffering from PEM IV th grade and Keratomalacia in the right eye, but her condition has not improved.
Dr. Lenin of PVCHR, Varanasi, got Sadhna Admitted to Vatsalya Hospital, Varanasi. Sadhna is recovering fast, but the rescue came to her a little late, she has lost her eyesight.
The above case is not the alone there are many in which children who are the future of our country are the victims of starvation and hunger. Who can be held responsible for the situation? Is it the government who makes powerful policies on paper but fail in its implementation, or is it the citizens who are not questioning the government for their basic rights. Till date Sadhna Family is aloof from getting any Government benefits or schemes. He does not possess an antyodya card.
After the complain by Right to Food Campaign, eastern UP, NHRC issued the notice to District Magistrate stated that let the complaint be transmitted to D.M. Varanasi, Uttar pradesh to look into the grievance. Action taken be reported in four weeks.( Case no.2583/24/2005-2006/UC).
INDIA: Activists Spotlight Hunger Deaths of Indian Children [News]
The death of 18 children between July and September, allegedly due to lack of food, has sparked concerns about growing starvation in a landless indigenous community in a remote village in northern India. As the Indian government belatedly wakes up to the long festering issue, with a decision to distribute free food packets, human rights activists working in the Sonebhadra district of the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, stress that the food aid is insufficient to keep starvation at bay. "The death of these 18 children highlights only the tip of the iceberg," says the People's Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR), a rights body based in the Uttar Pradesh city of Varanasi. The activists fear that if the government does not give land for cultivation to the people - belonging to the Ghasia tribe - they will continue to starve. "The situation is still extremely bleak," says PVCHR convener Lenin Raghuvanshi. The children of the Ghasia tribe - all aged between three and seven - died between July and September this year in Naibasta hamlet in Sonebhadra district in eastern Uttar Pradesh. PVCHR says that though local newspapers reported the deaths, the district administration chose to ignore the issue. "They died of the disease of hunger, what else," Somaro, a village elder, told a PVCHR team that recently visited the area to probe the starvation deaths. "As soon as the team entered the village, all children, women and the old gathered to see who had come. We found that most of the children were mere skeletons, as if their body and flesh had been sapped away. It was obvious that they were being dragged into the cruel clutches of death," the team said in a report to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) - a New Delhi-based government-instituted body. On the basis of the complaint, the NHRC Tuesday asked the Uttar Pradesh administration to examine the allegations. The state authorities have to present their report to the NHRC within six weeks. "At a recent meeting, the full commission noted that if the allegations were true, the matter required urgent attention by the authorities, as precious human rights of the tribals were alleged to have been violated," NHRC says in a statement. The Ghasia tribe has been living in a settlement declared a forest area by the government. Decades ago, the tribe made the forest their home, after fleeing their ancestral villages to escape the tyranny of the region's feudal landlords. PVCHR says they cleared a part of the forest and cultivated coarse grains for food. Dependent on forest produce, they supported themselves by making and selling brooms out of grass, combs and clay drums. But forest officials drove them out of the woods, and the villagers were forced to settle in an area just near a district town. Here, officials of the government-run Forest Department reportedly did not allow them to forage for food in the forests. According to Lenin, as a consequence, the families are surviving on poisonous grass and wild mushrooms for the last four years. "The adults somehow managed to survive the ill effects of the poisonous intake, but the little children were unable to tolerate the poison and succumbed to death," PVCHR says. After the NHRC's intervention, food was distributed to the affected families on Wednesday. Lenin stresses though, that the Ghasia people need land for survival. Only land distribution and agrarian reform can stave off deaths, he says. Lenin states that 40 nongovernmental organizations in eastern Uttar Pradesh have launched a movement to press the demand for land for the Ghasia people. The organizations plan to hold demonstrations and launch a signature campaign for this. [Source: OneWorld.Net]
Child malnutrition in India highest in the world: UN report
NEW DELHI (ICNS) -- A United Nations report on hunger and malnutrition in India says millions of Indians still suffer from chronic undernourishment and severe micronutrient malnutrition, especially women and children and people belonging to lower castes.
The numbers of hungry people have increased in the past decade, with food grain-availability falling to 152 kg per capita, 23 kg less than in the 1990s. The level of child malnutrition in India is among the highest in the world, higher even than some countries in sub-Saharan Africa, says the report ‘Extent of Chronic Hunger and Malnutrition in India’ by the UN’s special rapporteur on the right to food. The report was presented to the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva on September 22, 2006. On child malnutrition in India the report says: Nearly 2 million children die every year as a result of serious malnutrition and preventable diseases. Nearly half suffer from moderate or severe malnutrition. 47% of children are underweight, and 46% stunted in their growth. Malnutrition is most severe among children in rural areas, but it is also high in urban areas. Nearly a third of children (30%) are born underweight, which means that their mothers too are underweight and undernourished. Malnutrition also increases during early childhood, particularly among girls. Vitamin A deficiencies, particularly blindness, as well as iodine disorders have been recorded among children in hundreds of districts. The report says that according to the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), more than 200 million Indians eat less than the daily minimum calorie requirement. But the Indian government’s own statistics suggest that many more -- 53% of the population -- are undernourished. Other key findings of the report: The poorest 30% of households eat less than 1,700 kilocalories per day, per person (the international minimum standard is 2,100 kilocalories per day), even though they spend 70% of their income on food. More than 80% of women, infants and adolescent girls suffer from anaemia, and iron intake is estimated to be below 50% of the recommended daily requirement. The hungry and malnourished are primarily children and adults living in rural areas and are dependent on agriculture, working as casual workers but also as sharecroppers and tenant or marginal farmers with less than 1 hectare of land. Agricultural wages are very low and increasingly precarious; minimum wages are not always enforced and many people lack work during the agricultural lean season. In some states, feudalistic patterns of land ownership persist, despite its legal abolition. The benefits of economic growth since the 1990s have not been felt equally; the better-off western and southern states have been doing better than the poorer northern and eastern states. The increasingly market-oriented economy has not helped get the poorest out of poverty, and has only benefited the middle and upper classes. The focus on an export-oriented economy has seen a shift from subsistence to cash crops. Thus, the cultivation of grain, pulses and millet for household consumption has gone down. At the same time, cash crops require more expensive inputs in terms of seeds and fertiliser. This has pushed many farmers into debt resulting in a large number of farmer suicides. Government interventions in this area have not been very successful. The Tenth Five-Year Plan (2002-2007) includes the prevention, detection and management of micronutrient malnutrition, but studies by the Indian Council of Medical Research have shown that national nutrition goals have not been met. The Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) programme has a tendency to overstate the case, in monitoring levels of malnutrition. Other schemes such as the midday meal scheme have not been uniformly implemented across states. The shift to a target-based Public Distribution System (PDS) for foodgrain too has not been a success. The report also casts doubts on the government’s claim that poverty fell across India, from 36% to 26% between 1993 and 2000. “There is considerable debate about whether poverty has actually fallen or whether the drop in poverty is the result of changes in the data collected. One explanation may be that the assumed cost of a minimum food basket no longer reflects the real cost of food in India,” says the report. States where there is most poverty are Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Orissa, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and Karnataka, especially in rural areas of eastern India (east Uttar Pradesh, north Bihar, north Bengal, coastal Orissa, Assam and Tripura) and central tribal India (Bundelkhand, Jharkhand, Vidarbha, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan, western Orissa and Telengana).
BELWA (VARANASI DISTRICT): It's noon by the time Laxmina gets around to cooking but food's ready in a jiffy. Four rotis and a bowl of water in which she dissolves some salt. Dip, dip, dip...and three hungry kids gulp down their first and last meal of the day. "By evening they will be crying again but I'll just give them a slap or two and they will quieten down and go to sleep," she says. Her face is deadpan but her voice betrays her desperation. It's been only a month since her nine-month-old daughter Seema died hungry and sick. Before that in June, Laxmina lost her father Phoolchand. It's the monsoon months that are the worst in Belwa. With the brick kilns where most of this hamlet's Musahars work closed from July to October, death is forever at the door. Bhotu, a 55-year-old bonded labourer freed some years ago, rattles off the names of those who have succumbed in the last two months: Muneeb, Monu, Seema and Karmina all aged between nine months and eight years. Though the district administration claims the kids died because of various ailments, the villagers hotly contest this. "We cook once in three or four days, can our children be healthy?" asks Kismati, whose three-year-old son Muneeb died on May 29. Just three days earlier, the primary health centre at Baragaon had recorded that the child weighed only 10 kg and suffered from severe malnutrition. In a health check of children in Belwa, People's Vigilance Council for Human Rights (PVCHR), an organisation that works in the area, found that more than 80% of kids were malnourished. "But it took three deaths for the district authorities to issue Antodaya Ann Yojna (AAY) cards (which entitles the holder to 35 kg of rice and wheat at a subsidised price of Rs 95)," says Lenin Raghuvanshi of PVCHR. Before that they survived on low-quality grain and chaff doled out to them by the kiln owner instead of cash or just starved. "We go to work even when someone has died and the body is at home. But even though the money is so little (Rs 140 for 1,000 bricks), the worst is when the kilns are closed. Then the people start dying," says Bhotu. And it starts with the children.
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