‘Mera Haq, Meri Suraksha!’ was a 3 day Hindi workshop series on disability rights and the law from 23rd to 25th June 2021. It was an extension of ‘My Rights, My Safety’, the english version of the same workshop series that took place earlier that month. ‘Mera Haq, Meri Suraksha’ sought to spotlight the rights of women and children with disabilities as enshrined in the law in the face of sexual and domestic violence. Three essential laws pertaining to the safety of women and children in India were presented and made accessible so that people with disabilities are able to recognise their rights in the face of violence and are better equipped to raise their voice and seek justice. The workshops were led by two experienced lawyers who have worked extensively around the three laws and are actively involved in the Disability Rights Movement.
23rd June, 5:30 to 7 pm
First Workshop: PWDVA
Protection of Women Against Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA) a crucial law pertaining to domestic violence in India which recognises the unique complexities of domestic violence in the country and provides safeguards to women. The workshop was led by Human Rights Lawyer, Ujwala Kadrekar who explored the key tenets of the law.
June 24, 2021, 5:30 – 7 pm
Second Workshop: CLA
The second workshop was based on the Criminal Law Amendment Act, which spells out our rights in incidents of sexual violence. Rizwan Ali led the session on this law in the context of women with disabilities. Rizwan Ali is a lawyer and social worker by profession.
25 June 2021, 5:30 – 7 pm
Third Workshop: POCSO
The third workshop was based on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offenses (POCSO) legislation. This law states the rights of children against sexual violence against children. Rizwan Ali led this workshop who meticulously explained this important law with a focus on children with disabilities and answered all the questions raised by the participants.