DSLSA job fair gives wings to survivors’ cherished dreams

‘Project Virangana’ opens new job avenues for rape and acid attack survivors through skill training and employment opportunities

Nishtha*, 38, clutched her training certificate from the Institute of Hotel Management, Pusa — a small document carrying the weight of a long journey. In the quiet corridors of the Rouse Avenue District Courts Complex, hope echoed not through legal arguments or verdicts but through the promise of a fresh start.

The Delhi State Legal Services Authority (DSLSA) recently organised a job fair under ‘Project Virangana’, enabling 19 survivors of crimes to secure Letters of Intent for employment.

Ms.Nishtha, a rape survivor and resident of Swaroop Nagar near Karnal Bypass, previously worked as a conductor on Delhi Transport Corporation buses. She is now hopeful about a brighter future after undergoing training at the institute. “We learned to prepare different types of coffee, tea, and even mocktails,” she said, adding that she believes that these new skills will help her secure a better-paying job with improved working conditions.

Leading recruiters

The job fair attracted recruiters from leading names in the hospitality and service sectors, including ITC Hotels Ltd, The Lalit, Chhanv Foundation, Lemon Tree Hotels, and Par Anand Charitable Trust. While some participants were anxious about the job locations and preferred placements near their homes, 22-year-old Tara* stood out for her enthusiasm. “Will I get a job in a hill station? I love the hills,” she said with a hopeful smile.

In his concluding address, Naveen Gupta, Special Secretary of DSLSA, emphasised the initiative’s positive impact.

Supriya*, 45, shared that she has been selected for a position at a hotel in Motibagh. “Once I receive my certificate, I’ll join soon,” she said.

Seema*, 46, another rape survivor and currently an autorickshaw driver, has become aparalegal volunteerwiththeDSLSA after completing a two-day training programme in March. “I want to do something meaningful with my life. I want to help others who need support,” she said, adding that “it’s okay if I don’t get paid”.

(*Names changed to protect identity)