Deserted, women find home away from home in Deoria

DEORIA - Women empowerment groups are bringing transformation in the lives of several destitute women of Deoria in Uttar Pradesh who had been left to fend for themselves by their in-laws or loved ones.

Hundreds of women who have been abandoned by their husbands for dowry or have been tormented by family and society are supported by organizations like ‘Maa Vindhyavasini Women Training and Social Work Centre in the region.

These organisations have also settled down many young widows and divorcees, who are looked down upon by the society.

“My father was very poor; he did not even have proper means to eat. We were four sisters and a small brother. The madam here got me married again. There are no problems now and I am very happy,” said Kiran Jaiswal, a remarried divorcee.

Many of these women are being given vocational training to be self-reliant, as the centre not only provides shelter to such homeless women but is also training them in embroidery and craftwork to improve their financial position.

According to Lalita, one of the women at the center, the organisation helped her survive the outcome of her marriage gone awry.

“I came here after I was told about this organization for women after being thrown out of my in-laws’ house. Here they arranged for my daughter and me to stay. We are being trained in stitching, embroidery and painting various items like bags. These are sold in the market in return for some money which contributes towards helping us to sustain a living,” said Lalita.

The organizers said that the women were being trained in skilled work and provided legal assistance at all stages of their battle.

“We impart training to these women to empower them in less time and work with them to resolve their issues. My main motive is to support the women who have been tormented by their families and society. If such women come to this organization then my first step is to provide them shelter and empower them so that they can fight life. We also provide any kind of assistance that they need,” said Girija Tripathi, President, Maa Vindhyavasini Women Training and Social Work Centre, Deoria.

Many government and non- profit organisations are working for the cause of empowerment and upliftment of women. (ANI)