When entire village joined hands to rehabilitate rape survivor

BHOPAL: In a rare gesture, citizens joined hands to rehabilitate a 7-year-old rape survivor of Chattarpur. Besides planning her education, villagers also contributed more than Rs 3 lakh and created bank FDs in her name.
On February 8, the girl was raped at a fair at Khajuraho on the occasion of Shivratri. The accused was arrested only after police announced a reward of Rs 10,000 for clues.The rape survivor was admitted to Jayarogya hospital in Gwalior with severe injuries. Few days ago, she returned home after recovering from trauma.
And it was a betel leaf grower, Rajesh Mahto, who mobilised support for the girl. “Initially, only the Chourasia community came forward with aid. Later, funds poured in from the entire village,” said Mahto. On April 24, a group of 500 people from Chattarpur reached her home and extended support.
“Since I had deposited Rs 50,000 as fixed deposit in the name of the girl, people liked the idea and soon FDs of different sums worth Rs 3.66 lakh were deposited in the bank,” said Mahto.
All FDs are of 12-year duration and by the time she turns 19, she would have enough morey to pursue higher education. Besides, people have already ensured she gets education till Class 12, till FDs matured.
Pawan Rajawat, owner of a residential primary school in the city, has offered free education till Class 5. Another school owner, Manish Dosaj, has offered to take care of her education till Class 12. Deepak Chourasia, resident of Bhopal, and Dr Bhole Chourasia of Chattarpur will ensure she gets married after she completes her higher education. Rape survivor’s father said, “I am overwhelmed by the support.”