Kolkata: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday released its first list of candidates for the 2024 Lok Sabha election. While it has retained several old timers, the BJP has introduced some fresh faces as well. The list also contains a few names that have been recognised for not just political reasons but for their contribution in other fields.
In one such pick, the BJP has fielded Sreerupa Mitra Chaudhury from West Bengal’s Maldah Dakshin seat.
Here’s a look at who is Sreerupa Mitra Chaudhury.
Affectionately known as Nirbhaya Didi, Sreerupa Mitra Chaudhury has emerged as a prominent figure in West Bengal politics, championing causes of women’s rights, legal literacy, and social justice.
Hailing from the picturesque town of South Baluchar Battla in Malda district, her journey reflects resilience, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of justice.
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Career
A post-graduate from North Bengal University, Chaudhury embarked on her journey in activism with a fervent commitment to empowering the marginalized. In 2004, she played a pivotal role in the inception of the National Legal Literacy Mission, underscoring her dedication to legal education and access to justice for all. Chaudhury is also a former journalist.
Her tenure as the national advisor of the National Legal Services Authority under the Ministry of Law and Justice further solidified her reputation as a stalwart advocate for legal empowerment.
Additionally, she assumed the presidency of Sudinalay, a non-governmental organization, in 2010, amplifying her efforts in grassroots development and social welfare initiatives.
However, it is her moniker, Nirbhaya Didi, that resonates deeply with the people of Kolkata and beyond. Renowned for her involvement in rehabilitating rape victims and spearheading initiatives for women’s sanitation, she chaired the special task force on rape, trafficking and violence against women, established by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in the aftermath of the 2012 Delhi gang rape.
Political journey
Despite her notable contributions, Chaudhury’s political journey has been marked by twists and turns. In 2014, she contested the Lok Sabha elections from the South Delhi constituency under the banner of the All India Trinamool Congress, garnering significant support but narrowly missing victory.
Undeterred by setbacks, Chaudhury continued her political odyssey and contested the 2019 Lok Sabha elections from the Maldaha Dakshin seat, this time representing the Bharatiya Janata Party. Though the electoral outcome did not favour her, her resolve remained unshaken.
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In a remarkable turn of events, Chaudhury emerged triumphant in the 2021 West Bengal Legislative Assembly elections, clinching victory from the English Bazar constituency on a Bharatiya Janata Party ticket.
As Nirbhaya Didi continues to chart her course in the tumultuous realm of politics, her journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring leaders and advocates alike. With unwavering determination and a compassionate heart, she stands as a beacon of hope for the marginalized and a voice for the voiceless in West Bengal and beyond.
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