Human Rights Day Observed

KOCHI:
Marginalised communities demanded human rights for all marginalised communities today in Ernakulam. There were more than 60 community representatives from various movements including sexual minorities, women from disabilities movement, dalit women community members, transgenders, sex workers, activists representing various movements and organisations observed the Human Rights day at Marine Drive, Ernakulam.
The event was organised by Women’s Initiatives (human rights organisation), Marvel (Community Based Organisation of sexual minorities) in association with Peoples Union for Civil Liberties – Kerala and Human Rights Law Network – Kerala. The organisations work for the rights of marginalised communities and provide legal support for needy said activist and supporter Gurukiran from Women’s Initiatives.
Navas, the transgender rights activist and founder of Marvel CBO from Ernalukam appealed all the marginalied to come together as this gives more strength to the movement. He shared, though the constitution of India assured the fundamental human rights to all, marginalised communities rights are being violated, the court procedures delays the justice for the victims. He appealed that this system should change.
Addressing the gathering Human rights advocate Maya stated that leagal support for sex workers and sexual minorities should be strengthened. Organisations like Kerala Legal Service Authorities should train and recruit these community members as Para Legal Volunteers so that legal procedures are followed and access to justice becomes easy. Constitution should not remain in the locked in the books but it should be executed.
Lathika (name changed) a member of National Network and State level Network of Sex Workers organisation urged all the gathered groups to provide support in demanding right to life with dignity. We have been provided with HIV services but there is no other program to promote our rights. Though we have rights we are living in fear of penalising.