In the heart of rural Uttar Pradesh, where traditions often restrict women’s roles, Saroj emerged as a beacon of change. Her journey from adversity to leadership is a testament to the power of perseverance and collective action.
Saroj’s early years were filled with hardships. Her village Bhakrauli Mungeshpur in Kaiserganj block of Bahraich district frequently faced floods, displacing her family. Limited educational opportunities meant she could only study up to class 4 before being married at 15. With her husband working far away as a labourer, Saroj single-handedly managed household responsibilities. Despite financial struggles, she dreamed of a better future, not just for herself, but for her daughters and her community.
Traditional norms discouraged women from stepping beyond household duties. However, Saroj’s father-in-law encouraged her to join the Nari Sangha (Women’s Front), an organisation dedicated to empowering rural women. She soon became an active member, attending meetings and learning how to advocate for change.
An 18-Year-Old Crisis Affecting Farmers
In Saroj’s village, water from a canal flooded agricultural fields, destroying crops for about two decades. Fifty farmers faced repeated losses, with no resolution in sight. Recognising the urgency, Saroj raised the issue in a Nari Sangha meeting, determined to take action.
Saroj lodged a formal complaint via the 1076 helpline, prompting government officials to inspect the site. However, when they arrived, they overlooked the seriousness of the problem and attempted to dismiss the concerns. Unwilling to accept inaction, Saroj mobilised fellow Nari Sangha members and demanded a follow-up visit. This time, when officials returned, they tried to persuade farmers to sign documents that would withdraw the complaint. Saroj stood firm: “We will not sign until the embankment is built.”
When officials threatened to bypass them, Saroj boldly declared, “Our Nari Sangha has 2,000 members. If our problem is ignored, we will protest unitedly.” Faced with unwavering resistance, the authorities finally initiated the embankment construction.
A Triumph for Farmers and Women’s Leadership
Once built, the embankment successfully stopped canal flooding, saving the crops of 50 farmers. Saroj and the Nari Sangha members refused to rest until they ensured its permanent completion.
Her story is not just about protecting farmland—it is about breaking barriers, proving that empowered women can transform communities. Through her leadership, Saroj showed that when women rise, entire societies move forward with them. Her journey exemplifies the strength of grassroots movements, inspiring countless others to demand change and lead with courage.