Bimala’s Journey: From silence to strength
In Manhari Rural Municipality, 26-year-old Bimala’s story reflects strength in the face of adversity. Born into poverty and denied education, she endured years of domestic violence after an early marriage. In 2020, she fled with her two daughters and began seeking justice, despite lacking essential legal documents withheld by her husband.
Bimala’s turning point came in 2023 when she joined a women's group under WRP-III supported by Makwanpur Women’s Samuha (MMS). With training on legal rights, GBV, and livelihood skills, she gained the courage to file a legal case. MMS provided NPR 5,000 for legal follow-up and linked her with the District One-Stop Crisis Management Center (OCMC), which offered integrated services including legal aid and educational support for her children, worth NPR 1,00,000. Additionally, with the group’s support, she also received NPR 22,700 to start poultry farming and additional income through labor work, marking her first steps toward financial independence.
Today, Bimala is an active member of the group, openly sharing her experiences to raise awareness on gender-based violence. She lives with her maternal family and is also actively involved in policy dialogues and national assemblies. Once silenced by violence and fear, she now speaks confidently in public forums. Recalling her first national labor assembly, she said, “I was trembling and couldn’t even utter a word.” But inspired by other women’s stories, she found her voice. Now, Bimala addresses audiences of over a hundred people, advocating for informal women laborers and inspiring others to overcome injustice and reclaim their agency.