Be diligent, alert, responsible citizens: Brinda Adige to Gen Z

Bengaluru: Brinda Adige, a noted women and child rights activist, has always been outspoken on everything from violence against women, child protection, empowerment of the marginalised, combating human trafficking, to social reforms and beyond.

She is also the director of Global Concerns India, an organisation fo cused on advocacy, capacity building and resource mobilisation for the marginalised communities. In a conversation with NewsTrail, she sheds light on her remarkable experiences, acknowledging complexities and the passion that fuels her work.

Q: What has been your inspiring journey and the motivation that fuels your ongoing commit ment to activism?

My journey into activism was shaped by my challenging childhood experiences. I didn't attend school until I was nine. But my maternal grandmother and mother played a significant role in inspiring me. Growing up, I faced bully ing due to my skin colour, being called ‘kali kalouti’ and ‘baingan louti’.

However, these experiences taught me to be resilient. From a young age, I learned to stand up for what I believed in, which led me to work with street children. This eventually inspired me to establish ‘Makkala Sahaya Vani’ in 1997, India's first child protection helpline, followed by other initiatives like the Women's Helpline and Senior Citizen Helpline.

Q: What are your thoughts on decriminalising consensual relationships, without changing the age of consent?

The Supreme Court has already decriminalised adultery, establishing that the law shouldn't dictate morality. Similarly, consensual sex among individuals aged 16 and above is viewed as a more liberal and progressive approach, provided it's consensual.

Given the societal taboo surrounding sex, young people often seek information online, which can be misleading. Therefore, incorporating sex education into school curricula from class six is essential.

Q: Student suicides are a major concern. How can we prevent this?

The teachers are not trained to handle children, but they are trained only to handle the syllabus. If a child fails, the problem is certainly not to do with the child; it is to do with the teacher. We do not see schools or the state take necessary action, but rather counsel the victim.

The availability of suicide helplines and trauma care services is crucial to ad dress students’ emotional distress. A consolidated helpline system with a government mandate can ensure timely support. Parents, schools and institutions must collaborate to address the complex issues surrounding student suicides.

Q: Stay real, curious and focused, that’s the guid ance you have given to Gen Z.

Be authentic to yourself without pretence or trying to conform to societal expectations. Do not get into a toxic environment. Take responsibility for yourself and be accountable for your safety. Be diligent alert and respnsible at all times.

Q: What advice would you offer to the emerging activists fighting for social change?

Be compassionate but audacious enough to stand by what you believe in. Stand up for justice. Have courage in your convictions.