Embodying Change: Neelam’s Philosophy at Work in Aligarh

For Neelam, a resident of Gandhi Nagar Aligarh, social change is more than just work. It is a way of life which she shares with her daughters; she encourages them to assert themselves and pursue their education and live life on their own terms. She doesn't only guide her daughters but also chooses to lead by example, trusting the power of assertion and her Freedom of Choice which is guaranteed to her by the Constitution. During the COVID-19 Pandemic when she had to step out to drop a child to Bihar for their safety, after a careful consideration of the situation and circumstances, Neelam made a decision for herself and chose to go to Bihar. Instead of waiting for permission, she informed her family of her decision and continued with her work. 

Her journey began 12 years into her marriage, when she joined Udaan society, where she worked for the child helpline. From there, her dedication knew no bounds. Handling cases of injustice, holding community meetings, coordinating with the Child Welfare Committee (CWC), and talking to officials for support have become integral parts of Neelam’s life, reflecting her commitment to fostering change.

Over the years, Neelam has grown and evolved in her career, her mindset and knowledge. Her training on legal advocacy for women's laws and rights with Association For Advocacy and Legal Initiatives Trust (AALI), an organization based in Lucknow, was a turning point in Neelam’s life. Here her understanding of violence against women deepened, marking a moment of significant personal and professional growth. After this she was ready to educate others with this new found knowledge and understanding. Through her efforts, she helped set up a Police Chowki in a village where she worked. Here violence was prominent. Apart from ensuring that the people she works with have a place to go to report cases of violence against them, she has also lent a helping hand in ensuring that they are exercising their right to a healthy and hygienic life. She did so by helping to set up a toilet in Aligarh by bringing the people together to do a community signature and contacting the concerned authorities. 

Neelam acknowledges the difficulty of enacting internal change, noting that ‘zyadatar log jaagruk hone ka dikhawa karte hain’ (most of the people do the bare minimum on the outside to be liberal). True change happens when we decide to work on our mindset, outlook and act to make those around us and ourselves more independent and free from the crutches of our socialization. In the pursuit of spreading the message of empowerment, Neelam, frequently engages in discussions with those around her through this she has been able to reach over a 1000 people with her work.

Neelam’s collaboration with We, The People Abhiyan (WTPA) during the COVID-19 pandemic has complemented her legal knowledge. Learning about our Constitution and its Articles has helped her write more effective applications to authorities containing relevant articles, impart comprehensive knowledge to the communities she serves, and educate them about the Right to Life. Neelam can now recognize when her rights are violated and step up to those responsible.

After her WTPA training, Neelam has noticed a change in her approach to life. She now  has the confidence that she has the right knowledge and tools to help others and herself when in need. Through her work she has been able to reach people in thousands. She is truly an embodiment of the change she wants to see.

‘Be the change you want to see in the world.’ This quote best encapsulates Neelam Saini’s spirit. Neelam has worked dedicatedly since 2012 to spread the message of change. Helping people has always been of interest to Neelam, but she could not have imagined that her interest would transform into her life’s mission. Today, Neelam is deeply involved at the district level in helping women and children combat various forms of injustice, such as domestic violence, child marriage, human trafficing, sexual abuse, and child labor.

The above story has been written and published with the explicit consent of the individual involved. All facts presented are based on WTPA's direct interaction with the individual, ensuring accuracy and integrity in our reporting.