The real identity of persons has been disguised for safety of the individuals. Names mentioned below are fictitious but the details of the ordeal this family have been through are very real. SOPW has reached out to support them financially and emotionally. 

 

SOPW brings to your attention the case of Mrs Surinder Kaur, who is in her 50s. Her case was referred to SOPW by the people she trusts. We cannot reveal her real identity (all names have been changed) or location as she and her family are still afraid of police intimidation and abduction. Mrs Surinder Kaur is in desperate need for help and fears for her safety, the details presented below are intentionally vague to protect her identity.

 

Mrs Surinder Kaur has one daughter and one son. Her son was arrested in early 2000 in connection with a known Sikh political prisoner; he is currently in jail. Mrs Surinder Kaur’s daughter; Miss Reena Kaur is aged over 30, unmarried and unable to get a job due to her psychological condition and continued suffering. In addition to Mrs Surinder Kaur and her son, Mrs Surinder Kaur's daughter was also a victim of torture by one of the most brutal police officers; ACP Rajvir, who was killed in 2008. ACP Rajvir placed a gun to Miss Reena Kaur's head and threatened her to come alone to the police station or else her family would suffer. Miss Reena Kaur was forced to come to the police station weekly for 6-8 months, what she endured is known only to her and the police officers involved.

 

We do know from other cases that sexual violence, torture and intimidation of family members is a tactic that was used widely by the Indian police and security forces against Sikh political prisoners and their families. Miss Reena Kaur has been incredibly brave in coming forward, in light of the continued threats to her safety and the stigma in the Punjabi community attached to victims of such abuses (as demonstrated by her inability to get married). We can only guess at how many other victims are suffering in silence and hope they have the strength to come forward. Punjab is still an area of impunity.

 

In early 2000 Mrs Surinder Kaur was first diagnosed with cervical cancer. She was treated in Hospital where she had an operation and many subsequent radiation therapy treatments. For this operation and treatment Mrs Surinder Kaur sold all her gold to meet the costs, which were around 3.5 lakh rupees.

 

Currently Mrs Surinder Kaur is suffering severe side effects and has developed other health problems due to the radiation therapy. She has intestinal problems and has been defecating via her urinal tract. This has resulted in her having to carry a sanitation bag which has to be emptied regularly. Mrs Surinder Kaur is in a very unfortunate situation and requires urgent medical attention. A specialist cancer Hospital in Delhi has recommended an urgent operation which will cost approx. 3 lakhs.

 

We appeal to you for your support in helping Mrs Surinder Kaur with her medical costs, which will be around £4000.

Miss Reena Kaur is very proud and has said she, nor her family are a charity case, but if you would like to donate we will ensure your donations reach Mrs Surinder Kaur as a gesture of support and love from the Sikh Community.

 

We would like to thank you for your continuous support.

 

NB

 

 

The real identity of persons has been disguised for safety of the individuals. Names mentioned below are fictitious but the details of the ordeal this family have been through are very real. SOPW has reached out to support them financially and emotionally.