Kadam Badhate Chalo (KBC), the flagship programme of the Martha Farrell Foundation, is dedicated to empowering adolescents by providing them with a platform to ensure their voices are heard. At KBC, we recognise that those voices are deeply personal and subjective in expression, unique to each individual.
We have observed that when given the opportunity to share their thoughts, the adolescents reflect on their experiences. They raise their voices, and each one expresses themselves in their own distinctive way, depending on the platform and the context. This individuality not only enriches the dialogue, but also emphasises upon the diverse ways in which awareness can be raised and voices can be heard.
An individual's voice plays a crucial role in bringing attention to important issues and driving change. It serves as a tool for self-expression, empowerment, and advocacy. By raising their voices, adolescents not only take a stand for their own rights but also inspire others to challenge injustices and create a more equitable society. At KBC, we nurture these voices by recognising their potential to shape perspectives and lead collective action for creating safer spaces for women and girls.
On October 9,2024, an event was facilitated at Government Girls Senior Secondary School in Raksera village, Panipat, Haryana to mark the International Day of the Girl Child. Villages like Raksera, often overlooked in developmental efforts, face numerous challenges, including child marriage and violence, rooted deeply in cultural norms. This event became a vital platform for girls to share their concerns and learn about their rights, creating a sense of trust and community support. It brought together 90 girls, their teachers, the school principal, the village Sarpanch, and the District Child Protection Officer of Panipat and Sonipat, Rajni Gupta.
The event brought attention to the persistent issue of child marriage, which remains a concern in parts of Panipat, including Raksera village. While local data for Raksera is not widely available, broader trends in the region indicate that child marriage is still being practiced, often due to societal norms, economic pressures, and limited awareness of laws. But during the session, the village Sarpanch of Raksera admitted that child marriage and violence still happen in their community. He assured the girls that they could come to him for help, without fear. He said, “If you ever face any problem—child marriage, harassment, or violence—come to me. I will keep your identity safe and solve the issue,” giving the girls hope and confidence.
The event also provided adolescent girls with the opportunity to share their thoughts and raise their voices in front of the District Child Protection Officer, Rajni Gupta - something they had never done before. Feeling trusted and supported by the District Child Protection Officer, the girls found the courage to speak up. Rajni Gupta encouraged them to be bold, emphasising that meaningful change begins when they confront their fears and use their voices to challenge injustice.
This environment of support inspired several girls to share their experiences. Some confided privately that their marriages had already been arranged, even though they were only 15 or 16 years old. Others shared that they witnessed domestic violence at home, often feeling powerless to intervene. One of the girls explained how her attempts to stop her parents from fighting were dismissed because she was told that it was not her concern as a girl. These stories showcase that even though girls want to stand up for what is right, societal norms and fear hold them back.
Discussions at the event highlighted the crucial need for safe spaces where girls feel supported and can voice their struggles without fear of reprisal. It also highlighted the cultural barriers they face—being told not to interfere in family matters, fear of punishment for speaking up, and a lack of awareness about their rights and available support systems. However, the event demonstrated the transformative power of community support. When trusted figures like the sarpanch, teachers, and officials pledged their help and support, the girls began to feel empowered and hopeful.
This event reflected the essence of KBC’s mission - building trust and empowering voices. Adolescents, particularly girls from marginalised communities, need time and consistent support to trust systems and the people managing them. Yet, this event was a significant step towards breaking those barriers and building trust. It instilled in the girls a belief that their voices matter and that they can inspire change in their community, as many of these girls, who had never interacted with formal systems or authorities, began to develop confidence in seeking support, as someone - Rajni Gupta, District Child Protection Officer - from the system, who is a high ranking public official, came out of it and provided reassurance. Her presence and assurances created a sense of security, helping them believe that if they ever faced violence or other issues, they would have someone reliable to turn to for help.
By creating an environment where the girls were heard and supported, the event not only provided a platform for sharing struggles but also demonstrated the potential for change when communities unite to challenge injustice. It reminded everyone involved of the importance of listening to the voices of adolescents to advocate and contribute to creating safer, more equitable spaces for all.
