Nirmala Bastola’s Story in Surkhet

In the picturesque Birendranagar Valley of Nepal, Nirmala Bastola serves as a ticket seller at Bulbule Lake, welcoming visitors to the area. For the 41-year-old single mother, this role is more than a job; it is a vital step towards financial independence and personal healing.

The Role of Navjyoti Centre

Established in 2000 as part of the Nepal Nazareth Society, the Navjyoti Centre plays a crucial role in supporting survivors of domestic violence. It provides legal assistance, helping women like Bastola file charges against their abusers, as well as access to medical care, financial support for small businesses, and educational resources for children.

“Most survivors don’t know how to navigate the system,” said Sr. Rosita Kavilpurayidom, the center’s program coordinator. “Our goal is to ensure they have fair access to justice. Legal support often becomes the key to breaking free.”

Statistics on Domestic Violence in Nepal

Domestic violence remains a significant challenge in Nepal’s patriarchal society. The Nepal Police reported over 16,400 cases in the fiscal year 2024, with Karnali Province, including Surkhet district, accounting for 880 of those incidents. A 2022 survey indicated that 23% of women aged 15-49 had experienced physical violence.

Barriers to Leaving Abusive Relationships

Women face immense obstacles when attempting to leave abusive relationships, especially without financial support or family backing. Many survivors are pressured to reconcile with their partners, and the lengthy legal process adds another layer of difficulty.

Bastola’s Path to Independence

Bastola’s journey is emblematic of the challenges faced by many women in Nepal. Married at 15, she endured years of abuse, including physical and emotional harm. After seeking medical treatment with the help of her brother, she turned to Navjyoti Centre for legal assistance, learning about her rights and options.

Support from the Legal System

Through her connection with lawyer Geeta Koirala, Bastola received help navigating the legal system. Koirala offers affordable legal services, ensuring that survivors have representation in court.

“Victims come here broken, with nowhere else to turn. Here, they feel safe and supported,” said Jarmaya Thapa, a human rights officer at the Navjyoti Centre.

Successful Outcomes at Navjyoti Centre

The centre celebrates a high success rate, with approximately 95% of the cases resulting in divorce settlements, often including financial compensation. Each survivor’s story underscores the importance of supportive frameworks in helping women reclaim their lives.

A Community of Support

Jamuna Rokaya, another beneficiary of the center, illustrates the transformative power of support. After enduring years of abuse, she successfully filed for divorce with assistance from Navjyoti Centre and received a financial settlement that enabled her to start her own business.

“I consider Ama (Kavilpurayidom) my second mother and the center my second home,” Rokaya said.

Conclusion: A Hopeful Future

Women like Nirmala Bastola and Jamuna Rokaya exemplify resilience in the face of adversity. With the backing of organizations like the Navjyoti Centre, survivors of domestic violence are finding pathways to independence and healing, demonstrating that transformation is possible, even in challenging circumstances.