Navita is aVV-PACS Correspondent from Katihar district in Bihar on the eastern border of India. She has worked with the National Confederation of Dalit Organisations, working towards spreading awareness amongst the Dalit community on issues like access to livelihoods under the government’s Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act. Katihar is a district plagued by low literacy rates and an…

Navita Devi

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VV-PACS Correspondent Navita reports the chilling story of a family of a nine who survived the Bihar floods of 2013 only to be run over by a vehicle. 2 months after the accident they are still seeking financial aid. Bihar is one of the most flood prone states in India. Floods in Bihar are a recurring disaster, which on an annual basis destroy thousands of human lives along with livestock and assets worth millions. Large parts of Bihar were under water as the river water rose above the danger levels in September 2013. Pinku and her family had lost their house in these floods and had been forced to find shelter on a pavement. On the night of 28th December the heavy winter fog, dealt another blow to their lives. A car ran them over, grievously injuring the family and killing one. The Indian Government and State governments have compensation plans set out for survivors of natural disasters. Though rather measly sums of money, they go a long way in at least allowing survivors to start putting their lives back together. Pinki's family got none. They also got no compensation after the accident. It is unclear whether or not legal action was taken against the culprit behind the wheel. Pinki, like most of her family is unable to move around at the moment to earn a living for themselves. The medical bills are piling up. Till now, they have depended on the goodwill of neighbours and friends who have lent them money. But till when? While it is impossible for the State government to provide compensation to every road accident survivor, it is surely possible for it to make sure that the compensation promised to citizens is delivered. Please ensure justice for this family. Call to Action: Please call the Chief Officer of Katihar district, on 09431240190 and ask him to ensure the family gets compensation.