After months of trying to meet Hema (rescued June 2024 from a brothel in Akola, Maharashtra), social workers Bharti and Lalita finally met Hema at her house in the village. Hema was delighted to see them, and they were relieved to discover Hema healthy and safe. Hema enthusiastically shared about her job on a farm where she earns 250 rupees (~$2.99) a day. She leaves early in the morning and returns at 6 p.m. with some villagers who work at the same farm.
When Hema was in the shelter home, she attempted to commit suicide which is one of the reasons the Child Welfare Committee released Hema back home so she could be supported by her family. Bharti urged Hema to never consider suicide again, no matter how tough things were. Lalitha offered some ways Hema might better manage her emotions, and explained how to be more self-aware and aware of others. Hema expressed interest in taking a cosmetology course. She was eager to talk with Bharti and Lalita, and she seemed open to their advice.
After catching up on general topics, Bharti and Lalita steered the conversation to a more serious matter; the last time we visited, Hema was not at home and was attempting to bail out her boyfriend. Bharti and Lalita gently explained that Hema's boyfriend and everyone involved in sexually exploiting her were not her friends and only intended to use her for money.
They emphasized that it was important for her exploiters to receive a just punishment, and they tried to discourage her from attempting to bail them out. Hema listened and remained silent; she did not attempt to argue.
Sadly, many young victims develop Stockholm Syndrome and fall in love with their exploiters. For many, it is the only "love" they have ever experienced. These young girls will subject themselves to extreme abuse in order to please their exploiters and gain their "love." Many refuse to testify against them in the hopes of pursuing a future together, even if it means becoming a mistress and achieving some kind of "affection."
Freedom Firm’s restoration program invites these young girls into a journey of healing and self-discovery. We seek to help each survivor understand her value and uniqueness, as well as empower her with the tools she needs to pursue her dreams. Regardless of her past, we seek to offer each survivor a bright and beautiful future.
We hope Hema will continue to see her worth, feel truly loved, and pursue a better future for herself.
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