Enabling access to water pipelines using the Constitution

Meet Rukhsar Mulla – a dedicated field officer at Apnalaya, making a difference for her community by ensuring access to essential amenities and advocating for the rights of citizens.

Through our training, Rukhsar learnt how to link her causes with the Constitution as she mentions, “The Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP), which serve as guidelines for the State government, have been useful in my application writing to various departments. They have been particularly helpful when addressing complaints about the lack or absence of entitled benefits.”

Following our training, she started studying the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) policy. From her research, she learned that under the provision of 'water for all,' urban local bodies were mandated to install water pipelines at every 8 km interval. However, in her area, there were no pipelines. So, she applied the skills she learned to write a letter to the Municipal Corporation. Within this letter, she incorporated Constitutional elements, such as Article 21, and attached a copy of the SBM policy. When they read her letter, they responded positively, agreeing to install the water pipes, and she is hopeful that the construction would start soon.

Rukhsar continues to lead a team of volunteers at Apnalaya who share her dream of empowered bastis, where both rights and duties are upheld. Her continued commitment to encouraging active citizenship for all makes her a true Citizen Champion.

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.