Pak refugee women’s plight raised at UNHRC session in Geneva

Jodhpur: The plight of Pakistani female refugees found mention at the 61st session of the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) in Geneva, where participants were apprised of the religious persecution, violence and displacement faced by minority women who have sought refuge in India.Govind Singh Rathore of Sambhali Trust, invited to address the session on Thursday, highlighted the urgent need for humanitarian rehabilitation of these women and girls, describing their condition as serious. "These girls and women are faced with challenges like health and education as well as exploitation caused by the displacement," he said. Sambhali Trust has been supporting refugee children through education and skill-building. It has facilitated schooling for 22 girls aged 5 to 17 in Jodhpur and around 50 in Jaisalmer, while also running vocational programmes to help women become financially independent. Speaking to TOI from Geneva on Friday, Rathore said the girls were steadily overcoming trauma and showing promise. "They are doing well in education and are looking forward to carving a good future here," he said. Several other organisations, including Sewa Nyay Utthan Foundation and Agni Samaj, are also working in Jodhpur's Gangana area, a key settlement for Pakistani minority refugees. Their initiatives range from formal education to self-defence and advanced training. Dhyanchand, associated with one such group, said efforts include exposure to robotics and participation in IIT fests to bridge the gap with mainstream education. Agni Samaj, which focuses on martial arts training, has helped build confidence among young girls. "In 2025, 10 girls, aged 8–16, were selected for the 5th National Federation Cup karate competition in Ujjain," he said. For many girls, these interventions are opening new horizons. Arti Chouhan, a Class 10 student, aspires to join the civil services. "I want to become an IAS or IPS officer," she said. Having endured trauma in Pakistan, these girls are now rebuilding their lives in India, supported by organisations working to secure their future.