Girl Power, helping girls recover from abuse

Pramila’s story (name changed)

I am ten years old; I live with my maternal uncle as my mother is unwell and my father has died. It is a village in the jungle area. My uncle would make me do housework and would beat me often for small mistakes, then he started to touch me in private places in the night when I was sleeping on the floor. I felt so alone, so frightened, it was so sad for me and no-one to hear my cries of anguish or tears.

After a few months I could bear it no more so I ran away to the railway station. I did not care where the train was going, I could bear the misery and fear no longer.

When the train reached its destination I got off ..it was I now know Gaya Junction. I had no money not even sandals on my feet. I was shivering from the cold.

Some members of public saw me alone and crying and took me to a booth on the platform run by People First. A very kind lady offered me hot tea and a warm blanket she held my hand and told me I was safe now and my ordeal was over, I held her hand so tightly I did not want to let go. 

After a while I went to Rescue Junction and was given new clothes food and a comfy bed and lots of kindness, I had forgotten it.

When I woke up in the morning it was like a brand new day for me …

(This interview was conducted in Hindi by a qualified counsellor with Pramilas full consent and participation). Only the name has been changed it is unedited and reflects Pramilas own words 

In summary over a period of six months Pramila was found a new safe and loving home, has restarted school and is under supervision with our community support programme for at least the next two years Regular counselling and support is being offered to Pramilla . Medical examinations confirmed signs of physical abuse.

We can run this programme with your support, it really does make a real difference in the lives if children like Pramila .

Thank you so much.