After surviving trafficking and abuse, Kavya has found her way back to herself.

VIHAAN’s team was instrumental in rescuing a young girl from exploitation and trafficking. Since that day, we have stood by her side, providing counseling, legal support, and ongoing care as she rebuilds her life. This is her story.

Kavya didn't have much money growing up, but her grandmother, who raised her, always said "education would be her wings". However, when her grandmother passed away and Kavya was 10, everything changed.

She went back to live with her mother, who brought her to Madhyamgram, where they rented a small, dimly lit room at the edge of a bustling lane. Her mother soon met a man whom she said would take care of them. He started out being nice to Kavya; however, over time he became abusive. Whenever her mother left for work, he would touch her in ways that made her uncomfortable, whispering threats when she resisted.

When Kavya begged him to stop, he glared and said, "If you tell your mother, I'll kill her."

Day by day, the abuse grew worse. He began to force her into sex work and wanted to take her to a brothel. Before this could happen Kavya was rescued by VIHAAN, in partnership with the police. 

She was taken to a Child Care Institution (CCI). She didn't speak for days. Since the rescue, VIHAAN has been supporting her with counselling and with time she slowly began to talk again. She gave her statements and underwent a medical examination. A month later, doctors discovered she was pregnant. Her mother was contacted but never showed up. She had disappeared, leaving Kavya truly alone.

The news broke her. She would sit by the window, staring out, silent for hours. Since Kavya had no one, our social worker began visiting her every month, ensuring she didn't feel left out or alone. They spoke to her, comforted her, and reminded her that she was not to blame. Bit by bit, Kavya began to heal. 

Over time, VIHAAN and the staff at CCI helped her arrange her bank account and her enrolment in adult literacy classes. She learnt Taekwondo and, for the first time, she felt strong again. The power in her kicks and punches gave her confidence she had never known. She also joined jewelry-making and stitching classes, her hands finding peace in creativity.

Now, supported by VIHAAN’s legal team, Kavya is waiting to testify in court against her abusers. Whenever asked about the case, she repeats softly but firmly, "I will tell the truth. They must not hurt another girl like me."

Kavya has come far, but her journey continues, and as she awaits her trial, VIHAAN will stand by her side, supporting her however we can.

*Name has been changed to protect survivor's identity.